Heater core replacement cost
The average heater core replacement costs $1,375 – $1,912 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $489 – $612 and labor about $886 – $1,300.
Quick answer
$1,375 – $1,912parts and labor
Most drivers pay $1,375 – $1,912. On popular models the estimate ranges from $1,234 to $2,450, depending on the vehicle.
Average heater core replacement cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Parts | $489 – $612 |
| Labor | $886 – $1,300 |
| Total (national average) | $1,375 – $1,912 |
Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.
- Labor$886–$1,30067%
- Parts$489–$61233%
Share of a typical repair bill, using the middle of each range.
Cost by vehicle
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | $1,234 – $2,020 |
| Ford F-150 | $1,532 – $2,018 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | $1,805 – $2,450 |
RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.
What the job involves
The heater core is a small radiator behind the dashboard that heats the cabin. Like the AC evaporator, it usually requires removing much of the dashboard, so labor makes up most of the price.
Warning signs
- Sweet smell or foggy film on the inside of the windshield
- Wet passenger-side carpet
- Losing coolant with no outside leak
- No heat even with a warm engine
What changes the price
- Your vehicle. Parts for trucks, European and luxury models usually cost more, and on some engines the mechanic has to remove other parts first, which adds labor hours.
- Where you go. Dealers often charge 25% or more above independent shops. Most shops bill about $120 to $159 an hour (AAA, citing a 2025 PartsTech survey).
- The parts. OEM (factory) parts cost more than aftermarket or remanufactured parts. Ask which ones the estimate uses and what warranty comes with them.
- Extras. Related parts found during the job, fluids, shop supply fees and sales tax are not included in these averages.
How to pay less
- If the heat is weak but nothing leaks, a flush of a clogged heater core may help for much less.
- Ask whether the AC evaporator should be replaced at the same time on older cars.
How to get a fair estimate
- Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
- Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
- Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
- Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
- Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does heater core replacement cost?
About $1,375 to $1,912 on average at a repair shop, including $489 to $612 for parts and $886 to $1,300 for labor, before taxes and fees.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.