The thermostat itself typically costs about $15 to $60, and installation generally runs about $100 to $200 in labor, depending on region and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts.
For a 2013 Honda Civic, price variation arises from part quality, whether the kit includes gaskets or sensors, and where you have the work performed. This article walks through current pricing trends, buying options, and what to expect for both parts and labor.
What affects the price
Prices depend on the quality of the part, inclusion of gaskets or coolant, and the service setting. Here are the main factors to consider.
- Part type: OEM Honda thermostat vs. aftermarket options.
- Kit contents: whether the purchase includes a gasket/o-ring, coolant, or a complete thermostat housing.
- Labor rate: dealer service versus independent shops or quick-lube centers, which can vary by region.
- Additional work: coolant replacement, bleeding air from the cooling system, or addressing related cooling-system components.
- Regional price differences: metropolitan areas often have higher parts and labor costs.
Prices can vary widely based on these factors, so it’s wise to compare several sources and confirm what’s included before purchasing or scheduling service.
Parts options
Here are common choices you’ll encounter when shopping for a 2013 Civic thermostat.
- OEM Honda thermostat: typically $40–$70, depending on supplier and whether it’s a standalone part or part of a kit.
- Aftermarket thermostat (Gates, Denso, Beck/Arnley, etc.): usually $15–$40 for the part itself.
- Thermostat kit (thermostat plus gasket/o-ring and sometimes coolant): about $25–$90.
- Thermostat housing or housing-inclusive kits (if the housing must be replaced): roughly $60–$150.
When choosing, verify what the kit includes to avoid extra trips to the parts store and to ensure proper cooling-system compatibility with your Civic.
Labor considerations
Labor costs depend on where you get the work done and how long it takes. Typical ranges are:
- Independent shop or quick-lube center: 1–2 hours of labor, roughly $80–$120 per hour, totaling about $80–$240 for labor.
- Dealership or high-cost shop: 1–2 hours, often $120–$180 per hour, totaling about $120–$360 for labor.
- Total (parts plus labor): a broad range from about $95 to $460, depending on part choice and labor rate.
Always ask for a written estimate that separates parts and labor, and confirm whether coolant disposal and any required coolant flush are included in the price.
DIY vs professional replacement
Replacing a thermostat on a 2013 Civic is a moderate DIY task for someone with basic mechanical skills, but it involves draining coolant and ensuring the cooling system is properly bled to avoid air pockets. If you’re not comfortable with coolant handling or torque specifications, a professional installation can save time and prevent leaks.
Tools and materials
Gather these items before you begin to reduce interruptions.
- Socket set and ratchets, screwdrivers, pliers
- Drain pan and coolant compatible with your Civic’s specification
- New thermostat and gasket or O-ring (and possibly a coolant temp sensor if recommended)
- Torque wrench and rags for cleanup
- Repair manual or guide for your exact engine code
Note: Some kits include the gasket and a small amount of coolant; be sure to verify contents before starting.
Steps to replace the thermostat
The following outline reflects common steps for a 2013 Civic, but always consult your service manual for engine-specific details.
- Cool the engine completely and place the car on a level surface. Disconnect the battery if recommended by your manual.
- Drain the cooling system to below the thermostat level using the drain plug or radiator hoses as appropriate.
- Locate the thermostat housing; remove mounting bolts and carefully lift off the housing.
- Remove the old thermostat, noting orientation, and clean the seating surface to remove any old gasket material.
- Install the new thermostat with the correct orientation and place the gasket or O-ring in position.
- Reinstall the housing, tighten bolts to spec, and reconnect any disconnected hoses.
- Refill the cooling system with the appropriate coolant and bleed air per the manual or guidelines.
- Start the engine, check for leaks, and ensure the temperature gauge reaches operating temperature without bubble formation.
Expect the process to take roughly 1–2 hours for a DIYer, depending on experience and accessibility of the thermostat housing.
Where to shop for parts
Several outlets offer 2013 Civic thermostats, with prices varying by part type and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket. Here are common sources:
- Honda dealership parts counter
- National auto parts chains (AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts)
- Online retailers (RockAuto, Amazon, eBay)
- Manufacturer-specific catalogs (Denso, Gates, etc.)
Compare prices and confirm compatibility with your exact Civic variant (engine code and region can affect fit).
Cost snapshot: quick estimates
For planning purposes, here are typical ranges to expect when replacing a thermostat on a 2013 Honda Civic, depending on choices:
- Parts only (aftermarket): $15–$40
- Parts only (OEM): $40–$70
- Thermostat kit (thermostat + gasket): $25–$90
- Labor (independent shop, 1–2 hours): $80–$240
- Labor (dealership, 1–2 hours): $120–$360
Estimated total ranges from roughly $95 up to $460, depending on part quality, inclusions, and labor rates. Always request a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor.
Summary
For a 2013 Honda Civic, expect the thermostat price to range from about $15 to $70 for the part, with total project costs typically spanning $100 to $460 once labor and any coolant-related work are included. OEM parts generally cost more than aftermarket options, and labor rates vary by region and shop type. Whether you DIY or hire a shop, careful shopping for the right kit and a precise estimate will help you control the total cost while keeping the cooling system reliable.
Bottom line
Prices fluctuate, but with careful sourcing and clear understanding of what’s included in each kit, you can confidently plan for a thermostat replacement on your 2013 Honda Civic without surprises.