Radiator Repair Cost: What It Really Takes to Fix Your Car’s Cooling System
When your radiator, the main component that keeps your engine from overheating by circulating coolant. Also known as cooling system core, it's one of the most critical parts you’ll never notice—until it fails. A broken radiator doesn’t just make your car run hot. It can destroy your engine in minutes. Most radiators last 8 to 15 years, but if you’re seeing leaks, rust, or strange smells, it’s not a matter of "if," it’s a matter of "when." And fixing it isn’t just about swapping a part—it’s about understanding why it failed in the first place.
The radiator repair cost, the total price to fix or replace your car’s cooling system component usually ranges from £200 to £600 in the UK, depending on the car model and whether you need a full replacement or just a repair. A simple leak seal might cost £100, but if the radiator is cracked or clogged, you’re looking at a full unit swap. Labor makes up half the bill. Most garages charge £70–£120 an hour, and this job takes 2–4 hours. If your radiator is connected to the air conditioning system, a system that shares coolant flow and heat exchange with the radiator, things get more complex. A failing radiator can cause your AC to blow warm air, and fixing both at once adds cost but saves time. Don’t ignore warning signs like coolant puddles under your car, a sweet smell from the engine, or the temperature gauge creeping into the red. These aren’t "maybe" problems—they’re urgent ones.
Many people try to delay radiator repair because they think it’s a "big ticket" item. But skipping it is far more expensive. An overheated engine can warp the cylinder head, blow the head gasket, or seize the pistons—all repairs that cost £1,500 to £4,000. That’s why checking your radiator maintenance, routine steps like flushing coolant, inspecting hoses, and checking for corrosion every 2 years is the smartest money you’ll spend. A simple coolant flush costs under £50 and can add years to your radiator’s life. If you’re buying a used car at auction, always ask for coolant system records. A radiator that’s been neglected is a ticking time bomb.
What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from drivers and mechanics who’ve been there. From spotting early signs of radiator failure to comparing DIY fixes versus professional replacements, these posts cut through the noise. You’ll learn how a bad radiator affects your AC, what happens when coolant turns to sludge, and why some cars need expensive OEM parts while others can use aftermarket ones. No theory. No guesswork. Just what works on UK roads.
