How much does it cost to replace a radiator on a Subaru Impreza?
Expect to pay roughly $500 to $1,000 for a radiator replacement on a Subaru Impreza, depending on model year, engine, and local labor rates.
Radiator replacement involves sourcing a new radiator, fluids, and labor, with costs that can rise if extra cooling-system components are needed or if you choose dealer service. This article breaks down typical price ranges, what drives the final bill, and tips for saving money.
Cost components and typical ranges
What you pay for
Before the list, this section outlines the main price categories you’ll encounter when replacing a radiator on a Subaru Impreza.
- Radiator core: OEM (dealer) units typically cost about $250–$450; aftermarket radiators are usually $120–$250.
- Labor: Replacing the radiator generally takes 2–4 hours. At shop labor rates of roughly $70–$120 per hour, that amounts to about $140–$480.
- Auxiliary parts and services: Coolant, a new thermostat, hoses and clamps, and possibly a water pump or cooling-fan work. Parts can run $50–$180; a coolant flush or diagnostic charge may add $50–$100.
- Potential additional costs: If other cooling-system components are damaged or leaks are found, total costs can rise beyond the baseline.
Conclusion: For a typical radiator replacement, plan on about $500–$1,000, with higher totals in dealer settings or when extra work is required. Always seek itemized estimates and clarify what’s included (parts, labor, coolant, and bleed procedures).
Factors that influence cost
Key variables to watch
Several factors can push the price up or down. Here are the main ones to consider when budgeting for a radiator replacement on a Subaru Impreza.
- Vehicle specifics: Model year and engine variant affect radiator type, core size, and mounting hardware, influencing price.
- Radiator type and inclusions: OEM versus aftermarket, and whether the price includes fans, shroud, or other mounting components.
- Labor rates and shop type: Dealers typically charge higher labor rates than independents; urban regions tend to be more expensive.
- Additional repairs: If the cooling system shows other issues (water pump, thermostat, hoses, leaks), costs rise.
- Diagnostics and warranty: Some shops add diagnostic fees; warranties on parts and labor vary by provider.
Conclusion: Knowing these factors helps you budget accurately and compare quotes. Request a detailed breakdown that separates parts, labor, and any extras, and ask about included coolant flush and air bleeding.
Summary
Replacing a radiator on a Subaru Impreza is a mid-range repair for a modern vehicle. In many markets, most owners should budget about $500–$1,000, with potential deviations based on model year, engine, region, and whether dealer or independent service is used. Obtaining multiple quotes, choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts, and confirming whether a coolant flush and air bleed are included can help control final costs. Regular cooling-system maintenance can reduce the likelihood of surprise failures in the future.
