How much to replace a thermostat in a Honda Civic?

Typically $150–$400 total, depending on the Civic model year, your location, and whether the job includes extra parts or services. Labor is usually 1–2 hours.

The final price depends on several factors, including whether the thermostat is sold as a standalone unit or as part of the housing, if a coolant flush is performed, and what labor rate your shop charges. Engine access varies across Civic generations, which can affect time and cost.

What affects the price

Several factors determine the final bill when replacing a thermostat in a Honda Civic. The main ones are:

• Model year and engine type—Civics with different engines or generations can vary in how long the job takes and whether extra parts are needed.


• Thermostat vs housing—Some repairs require replacing the thermostat alone, while others involve the housing or gasket as well.


• Coolant and flush—If the cooling system is old or contaminated, a coolant flush and replacement may be advised, adding material and labor.


• Labor rate and location—Dealer, independent shop, and region all influence hourly rates.


• Additional cooling-system components—Hoses or seals found during the repair may need replacement, increasing cost.


• Warranty and parts quality—OEM parts or extended warranty coverage can raise upfront price but may save money long-term.

In practice, most Civics that require only the thermostat and a gasket stay on the lower end of the price range, while more extensive cooling-system work or a dealer-backed service can push the total higher.

What you can expect to pay

Price ranges for common scenarios in the United States are as follows:

• Basic replacement (thermostat, gasket, and coolant): Parts roughly $25–$60; coolant $8–$20; labor 1–2 hours at $75–$125/hour; total commonly $150–$350.


• Thermostat housing replacement or coolant flush: Add $40–$120 for parts and 1–2 more hours of labor; total often $250–$450.


• Dealership or high-cost-area shop: Expect higher end totals, roughly $300–$600 depending on model and services included.

Always request a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor before work begins, and confirm whether a coolant flush is included in the quoted price.

DIY considerations

Replacing a thermostat in a Honda Civic is doable for many DIY enthusiasts, but it requires caution around cooling system safety and proper bleeding to avoid overheating.

When DIY makes sense

You're experienced with basic car maintenance, have the right tools, and can safely drain and refill coolant without creating spills or leaks.

The following items cover the typical tools and parts you will need to complete the replacement.

What you will need

• New thermostat and gasket or housing kit


• Coolant for your Civic’s cooling system (pre-mixed or concentrate as specified)


• Basic hand tools (socket set, screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)


• Funnel, drain pan, and rags for spills


• Coolant bleed/air-purge method to remove air from the system

Note that DIY work may affect warranties or service plans; consult your vehicle’s manual and local regulations before proceeding. If in doubt, a professional service is recommended.

For DIYers who complete the task, ensure you test the system and check for leaks after refilling the coolant.

Summary

Replacing a Honda Civic thermostat is a moderate-cost maintenance item. For most Civics, a straightforward thermostat and gasket replacement typically runs about $150–$350, with higher totals if the housing is replaced or a coolant flush is performed, and even higher in dealer or high-cost regions. Getting multiple quotes, clarifying what’s included, and deciding between OEM vs aftermarket parts can help manage the final price.

How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a Honda Civic?

The average cost to replace a Honda Civic thermostat is between $150 and $500, though prices can vary significantly based on the vehicle's model year, labor rates, and parts used. The part itself can range from under $30 for an aftermarket option to over $100 for a factory thermostat, with labor often making up the majority of the total cost, as the job can be done in under an hour. 
Cost breakdown
This video explains why a thermostat should be replaced: 58sShop OwnerYouTube · Feb 29, 2024

• Parts: A new thermostat can cost anywhere from $20 to over $100 depending on if it's an aftermarket or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part. You may also need to purchase a new gasket, which is often sold separately. 
• Labor: The labor cost depends on your local shop's hourly rate. The job typically takes less than an hour to complete. For a 2014 Honda Civic, one user was charged $250 for labor. 
• Other costs: You may need to purchase new coolant or a seal if the old ones are not reusable. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Model Year: Older and newer models can have different costs. For example, a 2016 model has a higher potential cost ($569 to $806), while an older model like a 2004 may be lower. 
• Parts: Choosing an OEM part will likely be more expensive than an aftermarket one. 
• Labor: The hourly rate of the mechanic or shop you choose will impact the final price. Dealerships generally have higher labor rates than independent mechanics. 
• Additional Repairs: If the repair is part of a larger job (like a timing belt or water pump replacement), the total cost will be higher. 

How do I know if my Honda Civic thermostat is bad?

Symptoms of a bad thermostat in a Honda Civic include an overheating engine, erratic temperature gauge readings, poor heating or cooling from the cabin, coolant leaks, and unusual engine noises. If the thermostat is stuck closed, it can cause overheating, while if it's stuck open, the engine will take a long time to warm up and may have poor cabin heater performance.
 
Common symptoms

• Engine overheating: This is the most common symptom, especially if the thermostat is stuck closed. The temperature gauge may spike into the red or the check engine light could come on. 
• Erratic temperature gauge: The needle may fluctuate wildly between hot and cold, indicating the thermostat isn't regulating coolant flow properly. 
• Slow to warm up: If the thermostat is stuck open, the engine will take a long time to reach its normal operating temperature, and the temperature gauge will stay low for an extended period. 
• Poor heater performance: A stuck-open thermostat can lead to cold air blowing from the heater, especially when driving at lower speeds. 
• Coolant leaks: You may see coolant leaking from the thermostat housing or find puddles under your car. 
• Unusual engine noises: Some people report hearing gargling or other strange noises from the engine area. 
• Poor fuel efficiency: An engine that isn't reaching its optimal operating temperature can lead to worse gas mileage. 

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

You can likely drive with a bad thermostat, but only if it is stuck open; do not drive with a thermostat that is stuck closed or you risk severe engine damage. If stuck open, the engine will run cooler than normal, affecting fuel economy and emissions, but it won't overheat. If stuck closed, the engine will overheat very quickly, and driving further than necessary can cause permanent damage. 
If the thermostat is stuck open

• What happens: The engine runs cooler than its optimal temperature, taking longer to warm up. 
• Is it safe to drive? Yes, but it's not a good long-term solution. 
• What to do: Drive cautiously and avoid long distances. The engine's computer may keep a fuel mixture richer for longer, which can lower fuel economy and damage the catalytic converter. You will also have poor cabin heat. 

This video explains what happens when a car's thermostat is stuck open and the potential risks: 59sMake It Easy MechanicYouTube · Jun 10, 2023
If the thermostat is stuck closed 

• What happens: The engine will overheat very quickly because coolant cannot circulate to the radiator. 
• Is it safe to drive? No. 
• What to do: Pull over immediately. Driving even a short distance (as little as half a mile) can cause irreversible engine damage, such as a blown head gasket. If the car starts to overheat, turn the heater on full blast to help pull some heat away from the engine while you find a safe place to pull over and turn it off. 

This video explains what happens when a car's thermostat is stuck closed and why it is dangerous: 38sMy Auto LifeYouTube · Sep 7, 2024
Recommendation

• Get the thermostat replaced as soon as possible, regardless of whether it's stuck open or closed. 
• A malfunctioning thermostat impacts performance, fuel efficiency, and can lead to expensive repairs if you ignore the problem. 

How much will a mechanic charge to replace a thermostat?

The labor cost for thermostat replacement varies, but generally ranges from $80 to $200 for a home HVAC system and $120 to $220 for a car, with professional hourly rates typically between $50 and $150. The total cost depends on the complexity, location of the thermostat, and whether it is a simple or smart unit, with complex tasks like new wiring or wall modifications increasing the labor time and cost. 
Home thermostat replacement

• Hourly rate: HVAC technicians and electricians charge between $50 and $150 per hour.
• Average total labor: $80 to $200.
• Time: Typically takes 30 minutes to 3 hours.
• Factors that increase cost: Changing the unit's location, adding new wiring or circuitry, or modifying the wall will increase labor time and cost. 

Car thermostat replacement

• Hourly rate: Mechanics often charge $80 to $110 per hour. 
• Average total labor: $120 to $220. 
• Time: Varies from 1 to 2 hours or longer, depending on the car's make and model. 
• Factors that increase cost: Thermostats that are difficult to access or integrated into the housing can significantly increase labor time and cost. 

Tips

• Get multiple quotes: Contact several professionals for quotes to ensure a fair price. 
• Check for flat fees: Some companies may charge a flat installation fee instead of an hourly rate. 
• Consider DIY: If you are comfortable with basic electrical work and the thermostat is easily accessible, a DIY replacement can save on labor costs, but professional installation is recommended for complex jobs.