Radiator Replacement
How are radiator issues diagnosed?
A comprehensive inspection of the entire cooling system will be performed, including the water pump, heater hoses, cooling fans, and thermostat. With the engine off, the technician may perform a pressure test to ensure the cooling system is sealed. Radiator hoses will be inspected and should be replaced if old or leaking. Brittle or oil soaked hoses will fail after radiator replacement, necessitating additional repairs. If the engine has overheated the shop will inspect for signs of engine damage. Modern engines commonly have composite (plastic) parts such as intake manifolds and thermostat housings that can warp from engine overheating. These parts, along with the head gasket, should be checked for leakage.
How is a radiator replaced?
To replace the Radiator, the technician will drain the coolant from the cooling system and remove the Radiator and radiator hoses from the vehicle. This may also require removal of plastic shrouds and other engine bay cladding to reach the part. Where applicable, the cooling fan switch and electric cooling fan assemblies are transferred to the new Radiator. Once the new Radiator is installed, the cooling system is refilled with fresh coolant and the system is bled of any air, then rechecked to ensure all leaks have been fixed.
RepairPal Recommendations for radiator issues
The coolant should be refreshed according to manufacturer maintenance recommendation, with the correct coolant type. If the repair is being performed by a shop, we recommend asking if the cooling system was pressure tested as part of the diagnosis. Also ask if the radiator was determined to be clogged or leaking. Find out why it failed (Separation of plastic end tank? Damaged fins?). Find out if there were any resulting damages from overheating, or if other parts like belts, hoses, or the thermostat should be replaced at the same time. You can also ask to see the old parts.