How much does it cost to replace the oil cooler on a Dodge Journey?
Typically, replacing the oil cooler on a Dodge Journey costs about 300 to 900, depending on the engine and whether the cooler is standalone or integrated with the radiator, plus local labor rates.
Understanding what an oil cooler does and when replacement might be needed
The engine oil cooler helps regulate oil temperature to protect lubrication and engine wear. When the cooler or its associated hoses fail, you may notice oil leaks, coolant contamination, or elevated oil temperatures. Replacing the cooler often involves draining engine oil and coolant, removing obstructing components for access, and installing the new unit with fresh seals and fluids.
Cost breakdown
Costs can vary by engine configuration, part quality, and labor charges. The following ranges reflect typical scenarios you might encounter.
- Parts: Engine oil cooler assembly or hoses, gaskets/seals, coolant, and an oil filter. Expect roughly 60 to 350 for parts, depending on whether you use aftermarket or OEM parts and the exact cooler configuration.
- Labor: Most shops bill about 2 to 4 hours of labor, though access can push this to around 5 hours in some layouts. Labor rates commonly range from 80 to 120 per hour, depending on location and shop.
- Fluids and disposal: Engine oil, coolant, and any required flushes may add about 10 to 40 for fluids, plus disposal fees.
Concluding: The total price reflects parts, labor, and fluids, with increases if the radiator or other related components must be replaced or if you choose dealer service over an independent shop.
Factors that influence price
Several variables determine the final bill for an oil cooler replacement on a Dodge Journey.
- Engine type: Journeys equipped with different engines (for example, 2.4L I4 or 3.6L V6) can affect access time and parts used.
- Cooler location and integration: If the cooler is separate from the radiator versus integrated into the radiator, access and parts differ, impacting price.
- Parts quality: OEM parts typically cost more than aftermarket equivalents, but may come with longer warranty or better fit.
- Shop location and rates: Dealer service generally costs more than independent shops, especially outside urban areas.
- Additional repairs: If the radiator, hoses, or coolant reservoir are damaged or contaminated, they may require replacement, raising the total.
Concluding: Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes and avoid surprises.
Getting a quote and what to ask
To receive an accurate estimate, request a written quote that itemizes parts, labor, and fluids. Clarify whether the radiator is involved and if a coolant flush is included in the price.
- Ask for quotes from both a dealer and an independent shop to compare.
- Ask about warranties on parts and labor and the expected service life after replacement.
- Request a diagnostic first to confirm the issue is the oil cooler and not a related component such as the cooler lines or radiator leak.
Concluding: A detailed, written quote helps prevent scope creep and ensures you understand exactly what’s included.
What to expect during the replacement
During replacement, technicians typically drain engine oil and coolant, disconnect lines or hoses, remove the failed cooler, install the new cooler or radiator assembly, reseal connections, refill fluids, and perform leak checks and a brief test drive to verify operation.
Summary
Replacing the Dodge Journey oil cooler is a mid-range repair. Expect total costs generally in the $300–$900 range, with higher costs if the radiator or related components must be replaced or if labor rates are steep. Always obtain multiple quotes, confirm included services (fluids, disposal, warranty), and consider parts quality when choosing a shop.
