Hey guys, at 68k miles my 2009 H3 just developed the dreaded leaking on the top seam radiator failure. I read most of these posts, mostly looking to find an all aluminium replacement. Im of the idea that if i know the design is flawed, then why buy it again? Unfortunately the only option i found was a custom made model for 1k dollars. More than i would spend on a part like this. Next i considered if i could have the dealer replace it and only charge a 100.00 "dealer fee" That i would be happy with that. Called 3 Cadillac dealers here in my SF area and they all told me that there was no recall, so if i was looking for GM to cover some of the expense that i would have to call them and see. That it was on a case by case basis. Called the 800 Hummer number that i found online and was asked for info name & number, address and vin . Then was told to take it to my usual dealership for evaluation, afterwards to call them back to see what they could do. Is this a waste of time ? If it is i would rather just buy the aftermarket replacement and have my machanic intall it for me.

 

Wow! Its just been 2 hours since i called GM and looks like its resolved. My local Cadillac dealer called me to say that their supervisors from GM had called them because of my complain and that they would replace my radiator, out the door for 400.00. It's not the 100.00 i wanted to spend, but its better than the 800 plus that they would normally charge. I am going to take it and run. Happy camper !

 

Just took my 06 H3 for radiator repairs. They have had it for 2 full days and its not done yet. First estimate was $870.00 I checked today and they said its a heck of a job to replace the radiator. I told them It took around 2 hours and they said oh no more like 6 ???? they are going to rape me in labor. Any suggestions?

 

Who is "they", exactly?

Replacing a radiator in an H3 is an easy job, 2 hours maybe 2.5...not 6.

No GM dealer is going to turn a 2 hour job into a 6 hour one. If so, ask to speak with th service manager of the general manager to explain the steps involved to do the job and walk you through them.

New GM radiator is $500, plus $200 labor ($100 per hour x 2) and $100 coolant ... $800 seems right to me.

Or you could order an aftermarket radiator online for $150, wait a few days for shipping and have any local (inexpensive) garage do it for you for less.

 

Or you could buy an OEM AC Delco radiator GM #25964054 from Rockauto.com for $220 and DIY or have a local mechanic do it for you.

A dealer is the LAST place I would have ANY work done on my truck. $$$$$

 

Phil, I am a very rookie mechanic to say the least, but I followed the steps listed here to replace the radiator and it was a breeze. Took me maybe 5 hours to complete, alone.

Also, I bought an aftermarket radiator for $200 with warranty. Plus the cost of coolant and that's all I paid. You can do it too...

 

Or you can call this number 866-636-2273 and complain, you got nothing to lose and you may pay half the price (400.00) like i did. Im including a pic of my bill from the dealer.

 

I did a cheapie Sila radiator for $150. Took me a few hours and I am not a good mechanic. Happy so far 20,000 miles later..

 

If you are looking to change your radiator yourself this link may be more concise.
https://www.hummerforums.com/forum/h...uctions-29122/

 

Thanks all for your thoughts and advice. I know next time I will come here for questions and answers. I do have a new one. Check engine light came on. On star says emission problem. Dealer scanned it said some emission sensor in the "can" by the tank? Anyone know what or where that's located?