Tough call. There are a lot of Honda specific gurus on here that can probably help you better than I can, but I'll throw in my two cents for what it's worth. Regardless of which option you choose, make sure you have a warranty after the repairs (replacement) are performed.
Using the dealer is a good option because the tech's are trained on your specific vehicle and should know how to properly troubleshoot and repair it. The warranty will probably be the best, but the downside to the dealer is that their labor rates and parts will more than likely be the highest.
Using an independant shop is always good to price shop and get second opinions, but it's also a crap shoot as to the quality of work and parts as well as warranty duration.
As for replacing the engine, you may be better off or you may just be inheriting someone else's problems, another crap shoot.
Other options to consider would be taking it to a shop that specializes in cooling systems, rebuilding your existing engine or trading the vehicle in.
Make sure which ever option you choose that you get references, check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints and make sure you're satisfied with the warranty they offer.
Using the dealer is a good option because the tech's are trained on your specific vehicle and should know how to properly troubleshoot and repair it. The warranty will probably be the best, but the downside to the dealer is that their labor rates and parts will more than likely be the highest.
Using an independant shop is always good to price shop and get second opinions, but it's also a crap shoot as to the quality of work and parts as well as warranty duration.
As for replacing the engine, you may be better off or you may just be inheriting someone else's problems, another crap shoot.
Other options to consider would be taking it to a shop that specializes in cooling systems, rebuilding your existing engine or trading the vehicle in.
Make sure which ever option you choose that you get references, check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints and make sure you're satisfied with the warranty they offer.