2004 Isuzu Ascender Logo
Posted on Nov 24, 2008

Check engine light--dealer says it's the thermostat

My yellow check engine light has been on (steady) for the last 3 days. I took it to the dealer and was told that the thermostat needs to be replaced. I was also told that due to the design of the 2004 Ascender, the engine would have to be removed to replace the thermostat. I was quoted $700 to do this repair which is primarily labor.

I know that dealers upcharge but this seems extremely high. Not being all that knowledgeable about cars, I typically don't mind paying a little more for factory parts & service at the dealer but this just feels way out of line. Is it even true that the engine has to be removed to replace this part? If I wanted to hold off to get a better price, am I putting the engine at risk of an even pricier repair while I drive for a few more days? I'm trying to shop around but not having a lot of luck since Isuzu is basically out of business now.
Thanks!

  • jwtezino Feb 08, 2009

    I had the same problem and was quoted and$380. They have to remove the radiator and all the belts and hoses to get to the thermostat, but it does not solve the problem, my check engine light is still on. It only went off for a week before it came back on.

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  • Posted on Jun 02, 2009
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It's not the t-stat they read the code wrong go to checker or any auto parts store and use one of there code readers, I had a shop tell me the same thing. the codes are right next to each other Also you don't need to remove engine to do this job you just take off the alternator it's right under. My shop quoted me $300 for a $25 dollar part

  • Anonymous Jun 02, 2009

    Sorry Its the O2 sensor

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