How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a Toyota Highlander?
Expect to pay roughly $150 to $400 for a Highlander thermostat replacement, with higher totals if extra parts or cooling-system work are involved.
The exact price depends on your Highlander’s model year and engine, local labor rates, and whether the repair is a straightforward thermostat swap or includes related components such as the housing, water pump, or a coolant flush.
Cost factors and typical price ranges
Below is a breakdown of common price components you’ll encounter when replacing a thermostat on a Toyota Highlander. The ranges reflect typical consumer-facing repair shop quotes in many parts of the United States as of 2024–2025.
- Thermostat unit: $15–$120
- Gasket/seal and minor hardware: $5–$15
- Coolant (new): $8–$20 per quart; usually 1–2 quarts needed
- Thermostat housing (if replacement is required): $20–$100
In most cases, parts costs stay under $200, unless a dealership-only part or an upgraded aftermarket option is chosen. If a housing or related component is already leaking and needs replacing, the price can trend higher within the same general range.
Labor costs and time
Labor charges are driven by shop rate, engine design, and how accessible the thermostat is. The following ranges are representative for many Highlander engines.
- Average shop rate: $90–$150 per hour
- Typical replacement time: 1–2 hours (some engines may require up to 3 hours)
- Estimated labor cost: $90–$300
Taking parts and labor into account, the overall repair usually lands in the $150–$400 range for a straightforward thermostat swap. More complex cases or high-cost areas can push the total toward $500–$600 or more, especially if additional cooling-system work is done.
DIY versus professional replacement
Replacing a thermostat yourself can save money, but it requires some mechanical know-how and the right tools. Consider your comfort with draining and refilling coolant, bleeding air from the cooling system, and rechecking for leaks after the repair. Professional work offers a warranty on parts and labor and typically includes a coolant flush or refill as part of the service in many shops.
- Tools and supplies you’ll likely need: socket set, screwdrivers, pliers, torque wrench, drain pan, coolant, gasket sealant (if applicable)
- Time for a DIY job: roughly 1–4 hours depending on engine and access
- Risks of DIY: improper bleeding can lead to overheating, leaks, or air pockets in the cooling system
If you’re not confident about the cooling-system bleed procedure or warranty considerations, a professional replacement is a safer option that can prevent engine damage from overheating.
What could push the cost higher
Several scenarios can raise the final bill beyond the standard thermostat swap. Be aware of these possibilities when you request quotes from shops.
- Thermostat housing or water-pump replacement required due to age or leaks
- Cooling-system contamination requiring a more extensive coolant flush or reservoir replacement
- Access challenges on specific engine configurations, increasing labor time
- Dealership parts or regional price differences for skilled labor
In these cases, the total cost can rise noticeably, but you’ll typically see a clear breakdown on a written estimate so you can compare quotes.
Summary
For a Toyota Highlander, a thermostat replacement typically costs between $150 and $400 when performed at a standard shop, with higher totals if additional parts (like the housing or water pump) or coolant services are involved, or if you’re in a high-cost region. Parts commonly run $25–$180, while labor typically runs $90–$300, depending on the engine layout and local rates. DIY replacements can save money but carry the risk of improper cooling-system bleeding if you’re not experienced. Always request a detailed, written estimate that breaks out parts and labor to compare options accurately.
How long do Toyota thermostats last?
You won't need to worry about replacing your car's thermostat until the vehicle is 10 years old or older generally. This is about how long a thermostat lasts. Once the thermostat goes bad, however, Advanced Automotive recommends you have it replaced as soon as possible to avoid the following problems.
How much is a thermostat for a Toyota Highlander?
between $455 and $574
The average cost for a Toyota Highlander Thermostat Replacement is between $455 and $574. Labor costs are estimated between $254 and $372 while parts are typically priced around $202.
How much does a dealership charge to replace a thermostat?
The average cost for car thermostat replacement is $661 to $747.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?
This isn't new for Toyota. Similar issues have appeared in other models. Before. And it seems they're still trying or not trying to fully resolve.
