How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a Chevy Traverse?

In most cases, you can expect the total bill to fall roughly between $200 and $500, depending on model year, whether you replace only the thermostat or also the housing and coolant, and whether you choose a dealer or an independent shop.

The Chevy Traverse uses a front-engine cooling system that often requires draining coolant, replacing the thermostat and gasket, and then refilling and bleeding the system. Access and labor time can vary by year and engine layout, which affects price. This article breaks down typical costs, what drives them, and practical considerations to help you budget for a thermostat replacement.

Cost components

The following breakdown outlines common price ranges for a thermostat replacement on a Chevy Traverse, covering parts, labor, and typical optional extras. The figures are approximate and can vary by region, shop, and year/model.

• Parts: thermostat assembly, gasket or O-ring, coolant, and any necessary thermostat housing gasket. Typical parts cost ranges: $15–$75 for the thermostat, $5–$20 for seals, $10–$40 for coolant. If the thermostat housing is replaced, plan for an additional $50–$150 for the housing itself and related seals.

Labor: most Traverse thermostat replacements take about 1 to 2 hours on a standard engine layout; some models with harder access can take longer, up to about 3 hours. Labor rates vary by region and shop, commonly $75–$150 per hour. Estimated labor cost: $75–$300.

Optional extras and caveats

In some situations you may also need a coolant flush, additional cooling-system work, or related components replaced if they show wear or leaks. Including these can raise the total, but may prevent future issues and save time in the long run.

• Coolant flush and replacement: typically $50–$120.


• Water pump replacement or other cooling-system repairs: may add $300–$700 if required alongside the thermostat.


• Thermostat housing replacement (if cracked or leaking): $60–$200 extra for parts and labor.

Note that warranties, maintenance plans, or OEM versus aftermarket parts can shift the final price. Getting multiple quotes can help you find a competitive rate, and some DIY enthusiasts save on labor by providing their own parts and performing the work themselves if they have the necessary tools and knowledge.

What to expect at the shop

A technician will verify engine cooling behavior, check for leaks, and confirm thermostat operation, often with a pressure test and a coolant level check. The service advisor should itemize parts, labor, and any recommended related work, and explain how long the job should take based on your Traverse’s model year.

Symptoms that may indicate a thermostat needs replacement

Common signs include engine overheating, reduced heater performance, a thermostat that sticks closed causing high temperatures, or one that sticks open leading to consistently low engine temperatures and poor fuel efficiency. A warning light on the dashboard may also appear in some cases.

Conclusion

Replacing a thermostat on a Chevy Traverse is typically a mid-range repair. Expect roughly $200 to $500 total, with parts usually constituting $15–$75 for the thermostat and up to $150 for a thermostat housing if needed, plus $75–$150 per hour for labor. Additional cooling-system work or maintenance can raise the price, but may prevent future issues. Obtain a detailed, itemized estimate before authorizing work, and consider shopping around for quotes to find the best value.

Summary

For a Chevy Traverse, thermostat replacement costs commonly fall in the $200–$500 range, with parts priced around $15–$75 for the thermostat and up to $200 if a housing is replaced, and labor typically $75–$150 per hour. Expect higher totals if a coolant flush or other cooling-system repairs are needed. Always get a detailed estimate and compare quotes.

What year is bad for traverse?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Traverse include the earliest models, particularly 2009-2012, and the 2018 model, due to significant issues like transmission, steering, and engine problems. Other years with known problems include 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2015, which were affected by a range of complaints from steering and engine issues to AC problems. 
Early models to avoid

• 2009-2012: These early models are frequently cited for mechanical issues. 
  • 2009-2011: Prone to oil consumption, hard steering, and transmission problems. 
  • 2012: Affected by steering, engine, and AC problems. 
• 2014-2017: While less problematic than the earlier models, the 2015 year is specifically mentioned as having AC, steering, and engine issues. 

Other problematic years

• 2018: This year is particularly noted for transmission, engine, and electrical system malfunctions. 

What to look for instead

• More recent models, like the 2020 and 2021 versions, generally show improvements and have fewer reported problems, according to Powers Swain Chevrolet. 
• If considering older models, the 2014-2017 years are the least problematic within the first generation, notes CarGurus.com. 

Can you still drive your car if the thermostat is bad?

You can technically drive your car with a bad thermostat, but whether it's safe depends on how it failed. If it's stuck open, you can drive it, but the engine will run too cold, consume more fuel, and wear out faster. If it's stuck closed, it's very dangerous, and you should not drive it, as the engine will overheat and could suffer severe damage. 
If the thermostat is stuck open

• Symptoms: Your engine may take longer to warm up and may not reach its proper operating temperature. 
• Dangers:
  • Lower fuel efficiency: The engine will use more gas. 
  • Increased engine wear: Running too cold can lead to sludge buildup and shorten the engine's life. 
  • Reduced power: The engine may feel sluggish. 
• Recommendation: It's best to drive only a short distance if necessary and get it fixed soon. 

This video explains what to do if your thermostat is stuck open and why you should get it fixed soon: 59sMake It Easy MechanicYouTube · Jun 10, 2023
If the thermostat is stuck closed 

• Symptoms: The engine will quickly overheat, and the temperature gauge will climb into the red zone. 
• Dangers:
  • Severe engine damage: The engine can self-destruct or suffer permanent, costly damage. 
• Recommendation: Pull over immediately and turn off the engine to let it cool down. Do not drive it. 

This video explains what to do if your thermostat is stuck closed and why you should not drive your car: 37sMy Auto LifeYouTube · Sep 4, 2024

How many hours does it take to replace a thermostat in a car?

2 hours
Car thermostat replacement time is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the make of the car. It will cost you around $190 to $350, including labor. Thermostat repairs usually take more time, requiring extra time to diagnose and analyze the vehicle's thermostat. It can take up to 2 hours.

How much does a dealership charge to replace a thermostat?

The average cost for car thermostat replacement is $661 to $747.