What should it cost to replace an oil cooler on a 1997 catera?

Answer 1

This is a major failure of the Catera and it happens very often. I own a 1997 Catera and I currently have the same issue. The Chevrolet dealership quoted $1,444.76 for total repair costs. This included 6 1/2 hours of labor $422.50 @ $65.00 per hour) the cooler itself purchased from GM ($729.85), O ring ($7.95), Inlet pipe ($77.13) , Outlet pipe ($76.62), and the replacement of fresh oil, radiator fluid, and a flush of the coolant system ( $48.93) and $81.78 in total tax.

Now that being said, this amount is way, way, way over priced! If you buy the parts yourself you will need to purchase an oil cooler (comes with the oil cooler cover), a new set of gasket rings (some kits come with these, should be 4 total), and a tube of silicon bead along with 5 quarts of 5w30 oil and a bottle of Dextron coolant. Total parts for new aftermarket pieces if have found to be as follows:

Oil cooler kit = $268.00 (shipping incl)

Set of upper gaskets = $7.95

Tube of silicon gasket = $8.96

5 quarts of 5w30 motor oil = $18.95

1 bottle of concentrated Dextron coolant = $24.98

The total cost of parts are = $328.84

The estimated time for the project as per manuals I have read is 4-5 hours. If you are mechanically inclined you may attempt the change out yourself and save a bundle or find a certified mechanic that has experience with Cateras' and have them do it for you. With a coolant flush you would be looking at 5-6 hours. If you can get a certified mechanic for around $45-50 an hour your total cost SHOULD BE:

$619.84

I am planning on replacing the part myself but only do so if you are quite confident in working on engines. Part of the process is to remove the engine intake and plenium. Not a big ordeal but anytime you get into the guts of an engine you need to be confident you can put it back together right including the right torque specs for the bolts.

Hope this helps....