Radiator Replacement

The engine generates heat when it is running; this heat must be removed to prevent damage to the engine. Coolant circulates throughout the engine and absorbs this heat. The water pump pushes the coolant through the radiator (where it is cooled) and returns it to the engine once more to absorb the engine’s heat, before returning it to the radiator to be cooled again.

When a vehicle is traveling fast, rushing air flows through the radiator and cools the engine. When a vehicle is in stop-and-go traffic or stuck at a traffic light, the engine’s cooling fan pushes air through the radiator.

Periodic flushing of the cooling system is required to prevent the radiator and coolant passages from becoming plugged up due to debris circulating in the cooling system.

The radiator should be replaced if it develops a leak or no longer dissipates heat efficiently. To replace the radiator, the technician drains the coolant from the radiator and removes the radiator and radiator hoses from the vehicle. When applicable, the cooling fan switch and electric cooling fan assemblies are transferred to the new radiator. Once the new radiator is installed, it is filled with fresh coolant.

Mechanics' Corner: More Technical Detail

Removal of the front bumper, as well as removal of engine bay components such as hoses, ducting, and additional plumbing are often required in the course of this repair. To avoid trapped air bubbles in the cooling system, special procedures may be required.