Ford Explorer Radiator Replacement Cost

Replace a cracked or leaking radiator.

$575 – $1,380

Typical labor: 2 to 4 hours

Get Exact Estimate for My Explorer

Parts vs Labor

55% / 45%

Typical share of total cost

Labor Time

2 to 4 hours

At a typical shop

Difficulty

Advanced DIY

3 of 5 for the Ford Explorer

Estimate based on Ford Explorer parts and labor adjustments versus the national average. Your exact cost depends on year, trim, mileage, and shop. Get a free personalized AI estimate above.

Why Ford Explorer Owners See This Pricing

Explorers cost a bit more to fix due to their size and complex AWD systems.

For reference, the national average for radiator replacement on a typical passenger vehicle is $500 to $1,200. The Ford Explorer runs about +15% versus that baseline.

Common Symptoms in the Ford Explorer

Coolant leak under the front of the car

Engine overheating in traffic

Sweet smell from the engine bay

Low coolant warning

What It Is

The radiator cools hot coolant by passing it through thin fins exposed to air. Plastic end tanks crack with age and aluminum cores corrode.

Why It Matters

A failed radiator means an overheated engine, which can quickly cause thousands in damage.

How to Save Money on Ford Explorer Radiator Replacement

All-aluminum radiators cost a bit more but outlast plastic-tank radiators
Flush the cooling system when replacing the radiator to remove debris

Often Done Together

Shops commonly pair radiator replacement with these jobs to save on overlapping labor:

Coolant Flush

$115 – $288

Water Pump Replacement

$460 – $1,150

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do radiators last?

Usually 8 to 10 years or 100,000+ miles. Aluminum holds up better than plastic-tank designs.