I hardly ever drive my car(1999 Dodge Neon, two door)...I drove it a short distance-less then a mile and it overheated. The mechanic I took it to said there was a huge crack in the radiator and he'd get the part and do the labor for $325. I called some auto part places and I found I can get a new radiator w/lifetime warrenty for $143 for my model. I went back and asked what he'd charge for labor if I just bought the part- he said $80. If I need to replace the radiator is there another part I should be concerned about? I heard somewhere you should always replace the theremostat when you replace the radiator. I just really need to make sure everythings running right before I pack up my car and move to Montana (from Cali). And I want to know just what I need so I don't get swindled. Help much appreciated.
2006-12-12 03:18:45 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
that is a great price. check both hoses bottom hose for sure cause you have to drain the whole radiator to change this one, top and bottom and change the thermostat and be sure to get the gasket also while it's being done. only about $12 for both and remember it is 7 yrs old already, time to change it. check you belt and be sure to air up the tires and and check all fluids have a safe and fun trip.
2006-12-12 05:17:42 · answer #1 · answered by mh1205 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The thermostat is not an expensive part. Why don't you just buy the radiator and have it put in, then drive the car around a while and make sure it is going to be alright before you start buying parts that you don't need. But remember you are going to need to buy new coolant. If I were you I would go to Wal-Mart and get the premixed antifreeze or 50/50. It is cheaper than regular anit-freeze and you don't have to mix water with it.
2006-12-12 11:30:48 · answer #2 · answered by smoke 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Although it is good general practice to change the thermostat when you are replacing other cooling system components, it is by no means necessay. $143 for the radiator and $80 in labor is not too bad for that kind of work. If there was one part I would change it would be the belts.. and keep the old ones as spares in your trunk..
2006-12-12 11:30:14 · answer #3 · answered by Scott L 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As for the price, take into consideration on his estimate;
1)Anti-freeze
2)waste disposal fees'
3)taxes
That's a good price, and don't buy that Pre-mixed anti freeze, you're paying the same price for half water.
2006-12-12 12:00:56 · answer #4 · answered by Mr. KnowItAll 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
just have him change any bad hoses when he changes the radiator no need to replace the thermostat
2006-12-12 11:31:53 · answer #5 · answered by D42D 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋