Radiator Repair Price: What It Costs and What to Expect

When your car starts radiator repair price is the first thing on your mind—but it’s not the only thing that matters. A radiator, the main component that cools engine coolant by transferring heat to the air. Also known as cooling system core, it’s what keeps your engine from turning into a melted mess. If it fails, your car won’t go far. And if you ignore the signs, you could end up paying for an engine replacement instead of just a radiator fix.

Most radiator problems start small: a slow leak, a weird smell, or the temperature gauge creeping up. These aren’t just annoyances—they’re early warnings. The cooling system, the network of hoses, thermostat, water pump, and radiator that regulates engine temperature. breaks down in stages. A cracked plastic tank? That’s usually cheaper to fix than a corroded metal core. A blown head gasket causing coolant to mix with oil? That’s a whole different bill. Knowing the difference helps you avoid being upsold.

On average, radiator repair in the UK runs between £150 and £400. Replacing the whole unit? That’s £250 to £600, depending on your car. Labor takes up most of the cost—radiators aren’t always easy to reach. Some cars need the bumper removed, or the air conditioning taken apart. That’s why a quote from a local shop like Stevenage Tyres & Car Services often beats the big chain prices. They know what your model needs, not just what the parts catalog says.

Don’t assume a radiator needs replacing just because it’s old. A 15-year-old radiator can still work fine if it’s been flushed and maintained. But if you’ve seen green or rust-colored sludge in the coolant, or if the radiator feels hot on top but cold at the bottom, it’s time to act. A thermostat, the valve that controls coolant flow to the radiator. stuck closed is a common mimic—it looks like radiator trouble but costs way less to fix.

What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories from drivers who’ve been there. How to spot a bad radiator before it leaves you stranded. Why some radiator leaks are easy to patch and others mean a full swap. What the average repair actually includes—parts, labor, coolant flush, and whether you need a new cap or hose. You’ll also see how a failing radiator can sneakily damage your water pump or even your engine if you keep driving. No fluff. Just what works.