How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a Chevy Silverado?
Most Silverado thermostat replacements cost roughly $150 to $350 at independent repair shops, with dealership quotes often higher. If you do it yourself, parts costs are typically between $20 and $60.
What the repair involves
Replacing the thermostat in a Chevy Silverado generally involves draining some coolant, gaining access to the thermostat housing, installing a new thermostat and gasket, refilling coolant, and bleeding air from the cooling system. The exact steps and time required vary by engine type and how easily the thermostat can be reached.
Cost breakdown
Costs are typically broken into parts and labor. The following ranges reflect common figures seen for Chevy Silverado thermostat replacements in the United States.
- Thermostat kit (thermostat plus gasket or O-ring): 15–40
- Coolant: 5–15 per gallon (often one gallon is used)
- Gaskets, sealant, hose clamps, and related small parts: 2–10
- Optional: thermostat housing replacement or sensors if needed: 20–150
- Coolant flush (optional but common): 20–60
Conclusion: This cost structure provides a ballpark for most Silverado models; exact parts mix depends on engine type (4.3L V6, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, or Duramax) and whether the housing is replaced. Dealers may charge more for OEM parts and diagnostic time.
Labor and total price estimate
Before estimating labor, shops typically estimate how long the job will take. The following ranges reflect typical labor costs in the United States.
- Labor time: 1–2 hours for easier access engines; 2–3 hours for tougher layouts
- Labor rate: 75–150 per hour depending on region and shop
- Estimated total (parts + labor): 150–350 at independent shops; dealership quotes commonly 400–600 or more
- Do-it-yourself parts only: 20–60 (no labor)
Conclusion: Expect variation by engine layout and local labor rates; always get a written estimate that itemizes parts, coolant, and labor, and ask whether a coolant flush or sensor replacement is included.
DIY considerations
Replacing a thermostat is within reach for many DIYers with basic mechanical skills, but it requires careful handling of the cooling system and proper refilling to avoid air pockets and overheating. If you drive a more complex Silverado engine (such as a Duramax diesel) or are uncomfortable with automotive cooling systems, hiring a professional is advisable.
Engine variants that influence cost and access
Chevy Silverado models use a range of engines (4.3L V6, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, and Duramax diesels). The more difficult the access to the thermostat, the more labor time may be required, which can affect the overall price.
Summary
For a Chevy Silverado, the typical all-in price to replace a thermostat at an independent shop is usually about $150–$350, with higher quotes from dealers and in regions with higher labor rates. Parts-only costs for a DIY approach are typically $20–$60. The exact figure depends on engine type, access, coolant needs, and whether the thermostat housing or sensors require replacement. Always obtain a written estimate and confirm what is included (coolant, flush, sensors) before work begins.
