How much does it cost to replace a temperature sensor on a Chevy Colorado?
In most Chevy Colorado models, replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor typically costs about 80 to 260 dollars in total. The wide range reflects sensor price, labor rates, and whether you need a coolant bleed or additional parts. If you DIY, parts can be far cheaper; if you use a shop, expect labor to be the dominant cost.
This article breaks down the price components, what affects the total, and practical tips for buyers—covering common sensor types, typical labor times, potential diagnostics fees, and DIY considerations so you can plan a replacement with confidence.
Cost breakdown: parts, labor, and extras
Costs generally break down into parts, labor, diagnostic fees, and incidental fluids. The following ranges reflect typical prices across Chevy Colorado models (including 2.5L, 3.6L, and 3.7L engine variants) and common shopping scenarios.
- Sensor part price: Engine coolant temperature sensor (CTS) typically runs about $15 to $60, depending on whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts and the specific engine. Other temperature sensors (like an intake air temperature sensor) have similar price ranges but are less commonly replaced for coolant-system issues.
- Labor: Labor time for a CTS replacement is usually 0.5 to 1.5 hours at a shop. With typical regional hourly rates of $75 to $120, labor costs commonly fall around $40 to $180.
- Diagnostics: Some shops include the diagnostic check in the repair, while others charge a separate diagnostic or inspection fee, commonly $0 to $100. Codes related to CTS (for example P0117/P0118) may be scanned as part of the service.
- Fluids and incidental parts: Replacing a CTS may require a small amount of coolant; if a coolant refresh or system bleed is performed, add roughly $5 to $25 for coolant and disposal costs.
Bottom line: in most cases, total out-of-pocket cost ranges from about $80 to $260, with higher-end dealer pricing or more complex cooling-system work pushing the total upward.
DIY versus professional replacement
Deciding whether to DIY or hire a pro depends on your mechanical skill and tools, plus your tolerance for potential coolant spill or bleed issues. The following considerations help you weigh the option.
- Do-it-yourself potential: If you have basic hand tools and a safe, cool engine bay to work in, replacing a CTS typically costs only the price of the sensor plus any coolant you buy. Time to complete is usually 0.5 to 1 hour for a straightforward job.
- Time and expertise: A shop will handle sensor replacement, coolant bleed, and calibration checks, but the total cost includes labor. Expect 0.5–1.5 hours of shop time plus parts and any diagnostics.
- Risks of DIY: A poor seal, incomplete bleeding of the cooling system, or cross-threading the sensor can lead to leaks or inaccurate readings. If you’re not confident, professional service is advisable.
DIY savings can be meaningful, but professional service provides reliability, especially for ensuring the cooling system is properly bled and the engine temperature readings are accurate.
Symptoms that point to a failing CTS
If you’re unsure whether the CTS needs replacement, watch for these common signs. They can indicate a failing sensor or related cooling-system issue that should be diagnosed promptly.
- Erratic or rising engine temperature readings on the gauge, or the gauge fluctuates while driving.
- Engine misfires, rough idle, or poor acceleration, especially when the engine is cold.
- Check Engine Light with related codes (commonly P0117, P0118) indicating a coolant temperature sensor circuit issue.
- Difficulty starting or running engine only when cold, followed by stabilization as the engine warms up.
These symptoms don’t always mean the CTS is bad, but they strongly suggest a diagnostic check to confirm the sensor’s condition and rule out related cooling-system problems.
Summary
Replacing the temperature sensor on a Chevy Colorado is typically a modest-to-moderate-cost repair driven mainly by labor rates. Parts for the engine coolant temperature sensor are inexpensive, often in the $15–$60 range, while labor at a repair shop commonly adds $40–$180 depending on location and whether coolant bleeding is required. DIY approaches can reduce the cost to roughly the sensor price plus a small amount of coolant, but they require careful handling of the cooling system. If you’re seeing erratic temperature readings, a CEL with CTS-related codes, or hard starting in cold conditions, plan for a diagnostic check and potential CTS replacement to restore proper temperature readings and engine performance.
How much does it cost to get a temperature sensor replaced?
The average cost for an Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement is between $447 and $532. Labor costs are estimated between $135 and $198 while parts are priced between $312 and $334. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Can I drive my truck with a bad temperature sensor?
Driving with a bad coolant sensor can have negative consequences for your vehicle. While it may be possible to drive a short distance to purchase a new sensor, it is generally not recommended to drive long distances or for extended periods of time with a faulty coolant sensor. Here's why:
How much does it cost to replace a coolant temperature sensor on a Chevy Colorado?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Colorado Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement is between $759 and $946.
Can I replace a car temperature sensor myself?
Replacing the engine coolant sensor typically does not require draining the entire cooling system. Locate the sensor near the thermostat housing or engine block. Before removal, disconnect the battery and allow the engine to cool. Carefully unplug the sensor connector, unscrew the sensor, and replace it with a new one.
