How much does it cost to replace coolant in a Honda CRV?
In most situations, a coolant replacement for a Honda CR‑V costs about $150–$250 at an independent repair shop, and roughly $250–$320 at a Honda dealership. The exact price depends on whether you want a simple drain-and-fill or a full cooling-system flush, your engine type, and local labor rates.
What the service covers
A coolant replacement involves removing the old antifreeze from the cooling system, refilling with fresh coolant, and ensuring the system is free of air pockets. Depending on the shop, it may include a purge or bleed of the cooling system, a pressure test for leaks, and a quick inspection of hoses, the radiator cap, and the thermostat. The depth of the service varies between a basic drain-and-fill and a more thorough flush that cleans passages in the radiator and heater core.
Flush vs. drain-and-fill
The two main approaches differ in thoroughness and cost. A drain-and-fill removes old coolant and refills with new coolant, typically at the lower end of the price range. A flush uses flushing chemicals and equipment to clean out the cooling passages and is usually more expensive. A flush may be recommended if the system has sludge, rust, or reduced cooling performance.
Choosing the right coolant
Honda CR‑V models generally require Honda Type 2 coolant (also marketed as HCF‑2) designed for extended life and silicate-free protection. It’s typically mixed 50/50 with distilled water unless the service manual specifies a different ratio. Using the correct coolant type helps protect the radiator, water pump, and other components and can affect warranty coverage. When in doubt, rely on the owner’s manual or ask the service advisor for the exact specification.
Cost breakdown
Here's how the price typically stacks up for a CR‑V coolant replacement, including parts, labor, and ancillary fees.
- Coolant material: 1–2 gallons of Honda Type 2 coolant; price roughly $15–$25 per gallon, depending on brand and whether purchased at a dealership or aftermarket supplier.
- Flushing chemical or equipment (optional): about $5–$20 if a flush is requested, though some shops include it in the service.
- Labor: 0.8–1.5 hours of shop time; labor rates commonly range from $80–$150 per hour, yielding roughly $70–$225 in labor costs.
- Shop fees and disposal: a small additional charge (typically $5–$15) for coolant disposal and consumables; taxes vary by location.
- Dealer vs independent pricing: dealers generally charge more, but may offer manufacturer-backed warranties or promotions.
In practice, expect total costs to land in the ballpark of $150–$250 at independent repair shops and about $250–$320 at a Honda dealership, with higher figures if a full cooling-system flush is performed or if leaks or related repairs are involved.
DIY option
For the mechanically inclined, performing a coolant replacement at home can cut labor costs. Expect to spend roughly $30–$60 on coolant (1–2 gallons of Honda Type 2), plus basic tools and supplies. DIY also requires proper disposal and careful bleeding to avoid air pockets and overheating. If you’re unsure, a professional service is recommended to prevent damage.
Maintenance guidelines and warning signs
Refer to the owner’s manual for the exact maintenance interval, but many CR‑V models with long-life Type 2 coolant are serviced every 5–10 years or 60,000–120,000 miles, depending on model year and driving conditions. Watch for signs that the cooling system needs attention, such as overheating, a sweet smell around the engine, visible coolant leaks, or discolored coolant. If you notice sludge in the reservoir, persistent leaks, or a rising temperature gauge, have the system inspected promptly to determine whether a simple coolant replacement is enough or if further repairs are needed.
Summary
A coolant replacement for a Honda CR‑V typically runs about $150–$250 at independent shops and $250–$320 at dealers, with higher costs if a full flush is performed or if there are leaks or other required repairs. Using the correct Honda Type 2 coolant and following the vehicle’s maintenance schedule is important for long-term reliability, and a DIY option can save money if you have the right tools and disposal method. Always verify the exact interval and coolant specification in your owner's manual or with a trusted shop.
