How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a 2016 Dodge Charger?

Replacing the thermostat on a 2016 Dodge Charger typically costs about 200–400 dollars for parts and labor, with exact pricing depending on engine (3.6L V6 vs 5.7L Hemi), local labor rates, and whether any cooling-system service is bundled into the job.

Understanding how this common cooling-system repair is priced can help drivers plan ahead and compare quotes from shops. The following sections break down what drives the cost, what to expect for different engine options, and practical tips for budgeting or doing the work yourself.

Cost overview

These are the main factors that commonly influence the price of a thermostat replacement in a 2016 Charger.

• Engine variant: The Charger’s 3.6L V6 and 5.7L Hemi have similar replacement steps, but the larger engine often translates to longer labor time.


• Labor rates by region and shop type: Dealerships tend to be higher than independent shops; rural areas may be cheaper than urban centers.


• Parts quality: OEM (dealer) parts tend to be pricier than aftermarket equivalents; some shops use aftermarket thermostats with similar performance.


• Cooling-system scope: If the coolant is old, contaminated, or if hoses, the thermostat housing, or a water pump are also replaced, the total cost rises.


• Diagnostics and shop fees: Some shops charge a diagnostic fee or an upfront inspection if the issue isn’t clearly diagnosed as a stuck thermostat.

In practice, a straightforward thermostat replacement without additional cooling-system work typically falls in the mid-range of the spectrum, while repairs bundled with other cooling-system components or high labor rates can push the total higher.

Estimated costs by engine option

To help you estimate more precisely, here are typical ranges for the two common engine setups in the 2016 Charger. These figures include parts, labor, and standard coolant replacement, but exclude potential added costs such as taxes, shop fees, or extended warranties.

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: Approximately 140–330 dollars total, depending on parts choice and labor rate. Expect about 1–2 hours of labor at typical shop rates, plus a small amount for coolant.


• 5.7L Hemi: Approximately 180–420 dollars total, reflecting slightly longer labor in some cases and similar parts costs. Labor time is commonly around 1.5–2.5 hours at standard rates.

These ranges are representative but can vary significantly by location, shop, and whether any additional cooling-system service is performed as part of the job.

DIY considerations

For mechanically inclined owners, replacing a thermostat can be a feasible DIY project, but it requires care with cooling-system coolant and air pockets in the system. Labor savings can be meaningful, but you should weigh the risk of improper installation against the cost savings.

What to know before attempting

Before you start, consider these points to decide if a DIY replacement makes sense for your Charger:

• Access and complexity: The thermostat is not the most difficult repair, but it may require removing belts or other components to reach the housing in some configurations.


• Tools and supplies: You’ll need the replacement thermostat, gaskets or o-rings, coolant, a drain pan, and basic hand tools; you’ll also need to purge air from the cooling system after refilling.


• Potential risks: A failed reseal or trapped air can cause overheating or poor cooling performance; improper coolant mixture can damage the engine or sensors.

If you’re not comfortable with cooling-system work, professional installation is advisable to avoid leaks or air pockets and to maintain warranty coverage where applicable.

How to get an accurate quote

To avoid surprises, use these strategies when seeking estimates from shops.

• Ask for itemized estimates that separate parts, labor, coolant, and any diagnostic or disposal fees.


• Specify your engine variant (3.6L or 5.7L) and describe symptoms (overheating, erratic temperature, or a stuck thermostat) to help technicians assess scope.


• Request the replacement part type (OEM vs aftermarket) and whether a coolant flush or hose replacement is included.


• Get quotes from multiple shops, including independent mechanics and dealerships, to compare price and warranty terms.

An itemized quote will help you assess what’s included and how much you’re paying for parts versus labor, making it easier to choose the best value.

Summary

Replacing a thermostat on a 2016 Dodge Charger is a routine cooling-system service with a typical total cost range of roughly 200–400 dollars, influenced mainly by engine variant, local labor rates, and whether additional cooling-system work is performed. Expect smaller parts costs and modest labor time for the 3.6L V6, with slightly higher totals for the 5.7L Hemi in many markets. To ensure you get a fair price, obtain multiple, itemized quotes, consider both OEM and aftermarket part options, and decide whether any ancillary cooling-system service is warranted. If you’re comfortable with car maintenance, a DIY replacement can save labor costs, but proceed only if you’re confident in proper coolant handling and system purging.

How much will a mechanic charge to replace a thermostat?

The labor cost for a thermostat replacement is generally between $80 and $300 for a home HVAC system or $120 to $220 for a car, with hourly rates typically ranging from $50 to $150. For HVAC, the job can take 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on complexity, while a car thermostat may take 1 to 2 hours. Factors like the type of thermostat, vehicle make, and location can cause these costs to vary.
 
Home HVAC thermostat replacement

• Hourly Rate: Expect to pay between $50 and $150 per hour for an HVAC technician or electrician.
• Flat Fee: Some professionals charge a flat rate, which can range from $75 to $250.
• Average Labor Cost: The total labor cost is typically between $80 and $200, but it can be higher for complex jobs.
• Job Duration: The installation can take between 30 minutes and 3 hours, depending on whether the location needs to be changed, new wiring is required, or the thermostat is a smart model that needs programming. 

Car thermostat replacement

• Hourly Rate: Mechanics typically charge between $80 and $110 per hour. 
• Average Labor Cost: The labor cost is often between $120 and $220. 
• Job Duration: The replacement itself usually takes 1 to 2 hours. 
• Factors that increase cost: More complex engine designs, like those found in luxury or performance vehicles, can take longer and cost more in labor. 
• Other considerations: It is important to also budget for the cost of new coolant and a new gasket, which are essential for a proper repair. 

How much is a thermostat for a 2016 Dodge Charger?

2016 Dodge Charger Thermostats average $44.49 for our selection of OEM and aftermarket parts.

How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a Dodge Charger?

The cost to replace a Dodge Charger thermostat varies, but typically ranges from $350 to $750, with the average shop/dealer cost falling between $396 and $725. The final price depends on the model year, engine type, and parts needed, and can be lower or higher if you do it yourself or choose a more premium part. 
Cost breakdown

• Average shop/dealer price: Approximately $396 to $725. 
• Part cost: Ranges from about $25 to $70 for a new thermostat, depending on the brand and quality. 
• Labor cost: A significant portion of the total cost, with professional installation being more expensive. 

Factors that influence the total cost

• Model year and engine: Some models, like the 2009 Dodge Charger V6-2.7L, may have a higher repair cost due to parts or labor complexity. 
• Parts: The cost can vary based on the brand and type of thermostat. A higher-quality or "smart" thermostat will cost more. 
• Labor: You will pay more for professional installation at a dealership or auto shop compared to a DIY repair. 
• Additional parts: If the thermostat housing or other related parts need to be replaced, the total cost will increase. 

DIY vs. professional replacement

• DIY: If you are comfortable working on cars, replacing the thermostat yourself can significantly lower the cost, as you would only pay for the parts.
• Professional: For those who are not comfortable with auto repair, professional installation is recommended to ensure the job is done correctly. 

What to do next

• Check your specific model: Use your vehicle's year and engine size to get an accurate estimate for the parts and labor costs from an auto parts store or a repair shop.
• Get quotes: Obtain quotes from several different mechanics or dealerships to compare prices before committing to a repair.

How do I know if my Dodge Charger thermostat is bad?

Temperature Fluctuations: One of the most common signs of a bad thermostat is erratic temperature readings on your dashboard gauge. If you notice that the temperature gauge moves from normal to hot quickly or fluctuates unexpectedly, it's a clear indication that your thermostat may be malfunctioning.