It'll run you anywhere from $100-$175 new depending on where you get the parts from. That doesn't include labor if you aren't planning to replace them yourself. Different mechanics will have their own rates so shop around first.

***Just saw that you said the housing instead of the thermostat/water pump. That shouldn't cost you more than $70-$80 new.

GT-R wrote It'll run you anywhere from $100-$175 new depending on where you get the parts from. That doesn't include labor if you aren't planning to replace them yourself. Different mechanics will have their own rates so shop around first.

I have zero car experience besides changing the serpentine belt on a Mitsubishi. IS this something I should try to tackle on my own or should I just take it to a mechanic

If you don't have the experience then it's best to take it to someone who does. Not worth messing something up over that. I fixed my post above because I thought you were asking about the water pump and thermostat themselves. It should only cost you about $70-$80 new. It would be best to buy the housing and then take it to a mechanic. That way you don't get charged more than what it actually costs.

GT-R wrote If you don't have the experience then it's best to take it to someone who does. Not worth messing something up over that. I fixed my post above because I thought you were asking about the water pump and thermostat themselves. It should only cost you about $70-$80 new. It would be best to buy the housing and then take it to a mechanic. That way you don't get charged more than what it actually costs.

I'm buying the car for $500 would you say that it's worth it knowing the only problem is the thermo housing/water pump?

$500 for the car...? Guess it's safe to assume it's a very high mileage vw so I honestly wouldn't expect that to be the only thing wrong. May be for now, but just saying.

Sorry just a random comment since I just noticed it, How did I lose gold? lol Was gifted like 2 days ago and now it got taken away or refunded or something? sweeeettt.....

It's from a family friend whose moving to Utah to train for the Olympics