How much does it cost to replace a radiator in a pickup truck?

For most pickups, expect about $350 to $1,400 in total for a radiator replacement, depending on parts quality and labor. DIY can lower the price, while premium radiators or complex jobs can push costs higher.

The total price depends on several factors: the radiator type (OEM replacement vs aftermarket, aluminum vs plastic tanks), the vehicle model and engine, required accompanying parts (hoses, clamps, thermostat, coolant), and labor rates at the shop. Regional variation and whether you handle the work yourself also affect the final bill.

Cost components

Understanding what goes into the bill helps you estimate and compare quotes.

• Radiator unit cost: OEM or aftermarket, plastic-tank vs aluminum; typical price range about $150–$600.


• Labor: roughly 2–5 hours, depending on the truck and shop; at US shop rates, this translates to about $200–$600.


• Ancillary parts and supplies: coolant, hoses, clamps, and a thermostat; expect around $50–$150.


• Optional add-ons or repairs that are sometimes needed: replacement of the water pump, cooling fans, or transmission cooler lines; these can add $150–$900 depending on the component and labor.

Overall, most pickups fall in the broad range of $350–$1,400 for a radiator replacement when using standard parts and typical labor, with higher-end or heavy-duty models pushing the total higher.

Typical price ranges by model (illustrative)

Prices can vary by make and model; the following ranges reflect common pickups in the United States. They are intended as rough guides and can differ based on your exact vehicle and location.

• Compact/half-ton pickups (e.g., Ford F-150, RAM 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 in standard configurations): radiator unit typically $150–$500; total job $400–$1,000.


• Heavy-duty or specialty pickups (e.g., 3/4-ton variants, larger cooling needs): radiator unit $300–$800; total job $700–$1,600.


• Diesel-equipped pickups (higher heat and cooling demand): radiator unit $300–$900; total job $800–$1,800.

Note that these ranges assume basic replacement with standard equipment; high-performance or OEM-factory radiators can be at the upper end or higher, and some shops charge more in certain regions.

DIY considerations

Doing the replacement yourself can significantly cut costs, but it requires the right tools and mechanical skill. If you choose to tackle it, plan for:

• Serial steps include safely draining coolant, disconnecting hoses, removing mounting brackets, installing the new radiator, refilling and bleeding air from the cooling system, and checking for leaks.


• Necessary tools: a drain pan, wrenches or sockets, pliers, screwdrivers, coolant funnel, coolant compatible with your engine, and possibly a fan shroud or radiator support removal.


• Safety and environmental notes: properly dispose of used coolant, wear gloves and eye protection, and ensure the engine is cool before starting work.

DIY projects can save labor costs but may void certain warranties if performed improperly. If you’re unsure, consult a professional or obtain a precise quote before proceeding.

Summary

Replacing a radiator in a pickup typically costs between $350 and $1,400, with variations based on radiator type, vehicle model, and labor rates. More expensive scenarios involve heavy-duty or diesel configurations, premium parts, or added cooling-system work. Getting multiple quotes and, if possible, performing parts replacement yourself can help manage the total. Always verify what’s included in a quote (hoses, coolant, tax, disposal fees) and whether any additional components might be required for your specific truck.

Is it cheaper to replace or repair a radiator?

The average cost to replace a car radiator can range from $750 to $1,850, depending on car make and model. Radiator repair is often far cheaper, costing $250 to $750, on average.

How much does it cost to replace a radiator on a Silverado 1500?

between $1,348 and $1,543
The cost to replace a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 radiator typically ranges between $1,348 and $1,543. This price includes both parts, which can cost between $1,106 and $1,239, and labor, estimated between $241 and $304.

How long does it take to change a radiator in a truck?

Changing a truck's radiator typically takes 3 to 6 hours for a professional and 3 to 5 hours for a DIYer with moderate experience, though this can vary significantly based on the truck's make and model. Factors like the complexity of the engine bay, accessibility, and the need to replace additional parts can affect the total time. 
Factors that influence the time:

• Vehicle make and model: Some engines are much easier to work on than others. For example, a front-wheel-drive vehicle may be more straightforward than a heavy-duty truck with a larger engine. 
• Experience level: A seasoned mechanic will be faster than a novice. A professional shop may have specialized tools that can speed up the process. 
• Accessibility: The radiator's location in the engine bay can significantly impact the time required. Some radiators are easy to get to, while others require removing more components. 
• Additional parts: It is often necessary to replace related components like hoses, clamps, and sensors at the same time, which will add to the overall time. 
• System bleeding: After installation, the cooling system must be refilled and bled to remove air pockets, which adds extra time to the project. 

Typical timeframes:

• Professional mechanic:
  • Average truck: 3 to 6 hours. 
  • Heavy-duty truck: 4 to 6 hours (with assistance) or 6+ hours (without assistance). 
• DIYer:
  • Moderate experience: 3 to 5 hours. 
  • Less experienced: Might take a full day, so it is recommended to have help or be prepared to take your time. 

How much does it cost to replace a radiator in a truck?

Replacing a truck's radiator can cost between $800 and $1,850 or more, depending on the make and model, with an average often cited around $896. The total price includes both parts, which can range from $400 to $600 or higher for specialty vehicles, and labor, which can vary from $200 to $1,500. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: A new radiator can cost anywhere from $400 to over $1,500, with the price increasing for luxury or heavy-duty trucks. 
• Labor: Labor rates depend on the mechanic's hourly rate and how difficult the radiator is to access, ranging from about $200 to $800 for a standard truck or up to $1,500 for a large commercial vehicle. 
• Additional components: You may also need to factor in the cost of other parts like hoses, clamps, and coolant, which can add $100 to $500 to the total. 

Factors that influence cost

• Vehicle type: The size, make, and model of your truck will significantly impact the cost. For example, a heavy-duty commercial truck will have much higher part and labor costs than a standard pickup truck. 
• Shop location: Labor rates vary by region, and independent shops are often cheaper than dealerships. 
• Parts quality: Aftermarket parts are generally cheaper than OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. 
• Accessibility: If the radiator is in a hard-to-reach area of the engine bay, it will take the mechanic longer to replace, increasing the labor cost. 

Tips to save money

• Shop around: Get quotes from several different mechanics, both independent shops and dealerships, to compare prices. 
• Do it yourself: If you have the right tools and mechanical experience, you can save a significant amount on labor by replacing the radiator yourself. 
• Consider a repair: If the issue is a leak in a hose or another minor problem, a repair might be a much cheaper option than a full replacement.