My car (1999 1.8 non turbo Octavia Estate) has just passed it's MOT. I asked them -the Main Dealer who sold me the car 6 years ago and who've done all the servicing - to look at a slight water leak and tinkling sound from the front. The leak requires a new radiator and the tinkling is the fan motor bearing about to fail. They want £400 to replace both. I can get the parts from GSF for just over £100, so the balance must be labour. Could a fairly competent DIY'er - I've changed MINI clutches and Alfa Water Pumps in my youth, fit these parts himself in say a day or weekend using a basic Socket Set and Spanner Tool kit and assisted by his 6 year old daughter? I may also try a decent independent for a quote. Any recommendations for East London/Essex.

I've done the rad in Mk3 and mk4 golfs without any hassles. It takes ages because you have alot of car to remove (front bumper etc) but none of it is difficult. If you have aircon then you do have that hurdle to work around but if not, it's pretty simple.

Cheers,

iep

Go DIY. £400 is a tad steep for just a rad change!

I always recon £50 is reasonable, so £300 equates to 6 hours labour for them! Pah. Give me £299.99 and I'll fit it!