2000 Dodge Caravan with 6 cylinder (think it's 3.3 L and NOT flex fuel)
and the radiator has a leak that Stop Leak won't fix. Local shop wants $350 to replace it with a $220 one. I've been on Ebay and local parts stores and seen many more fromn $100-200.

If I'm buying one on Ebay, how do I know that I'm getting the exact one I need? Is there a part or serial number I can use from my vehicle to make sure it matches up?

The reason I ask is that I see various radiators that have different intakes and exits of the rad. hoses and some models that have tranny cooler take a different radiator...etc...it seems so confusing. I want to make sure I get the correct one if I order it. Any tips for a sure thing?

 

for the $150-$200 difference between having it done and not having to worry nor taking the chance of screwing something up nor taking the chance on wasting your money buying the wrong one, just get it done. Did you shop around? try other sources like Napa, Autozone, etc. I'd avoid ebay units because those are Chineese junk and if you have a problem after putting in all that work and it leaks, how much did you really save? It's about 1½-2 hrs to change out the radiator (I do it in under an hour but I've done enough that I know every size bolt and locations). Your local shop wants to be paid for the labor. Their charge looks to be $130 according to your numbers. I'd assume that includes new coolant and some transmission fluid (about a qt.). So if really do the math, they want about $100 for the labor so they can help pay for their worker, the light bill, and other overhead expences. Oh and then you'll have a warranty and someone to go back to if there is a problem. Sure makes sense to me, $100 for someone to do the work, and then you don't have to worry about getting the right part!

 

Ok so would you say then that $350 is a good price for that work?

The reason I hesitate going back to that mechanic is he always seems to be alot of money and fixes things that I didn't ask him to fix and I end up paying an arm and a leg more than the initial bid!

For example: I made a boo-boo and when trying to replace the thermostat, broke off one of the two bolts. This was the bolt closer to the intake manifold or to the center of the engine. I couldn't reach it with anything, not even vice grips. I took it to the shop and they quoted $300-500. I thought that's ridiculous for something I could do in 2 hours as a shade tree mechanic (if I had a heated garage, and my van could even fit in mine. lol). Anyhow, $575 he says it's done and he was kind enough to replace the serpentine belt and valve cover gasket.

 

Yes its a good price. And its a lot more work than a shade tree mechanic can handle.

 

ya braking bolts off sux i can getem out with a tig welder or mig welding a nut on the broken bolt. sometimes i gotta drill and ez out or use left twist drill bits

 

It is Simple,if you are not a mechanic,go to one!