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Choosing between a quick fix and a full rebuild on a 2004 Civic's cooling system
Last month, a customer came in with a 2004 Honda Civic overheating. The head gasket was fine, but the radiator had a small leak. I had to pick between just replacing the radiator for about $250 or doing the whole system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, and hoses for closer to $600. I talked it over with the owner and we went for the full job. It took me a full day, but when I pressure tested it, everything held perfect. Now I'm thinking, how do you guys decide when to recommend the bigger repair versus just the obvious part?
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graceblack2mo ago
Age and mileage decide it for me.
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annas872mo ago
Yeah but maintenance history is the real secret. A well kept older car can outlast a neglected newer one. It's all about the records.
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My old 2003 Corolla taught me the hard way. Did the cheap fix, then the water pump went a week later. I'm basically a cautionary tale.
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