Car Radiator Replacement 101: Everything You Need to Know About It

In everyday life, things heat up. That’s why we need a system to cool them. The same goes for car radiators and car radiator replacement. A radiator holds down the engine by constantly lowering the temperature through heat dispersion.

Normally, a radiator may last a decade. However, you may have to replace it sooner. There can be several signs to indicate it’s time for car radiator replacement. So, you must have the basic knowledge about it. This blog is a complete guide to car radiator replacement with its major types and other important FAQs.

What Is A Car Radiator and Where to Find It

A car engine should work at lower temperatures without any type of overheating. That’s what the car radiator function is. The radiator continuously circulates water and coolant mixture through the fins and tube network. The mixture goes throughout the engine, transferring the heat into the surrounding air. 

Usually, you will find a radiator at a car’s front behind the grille. Here, it gets the maximum airflow. This placement helps an efficient cooling and maintains the required engine temperature.

Different Types of Car Radiators

Car radiators are of different types. The common ones are copper or brass, aluminium, crossflow, and downflow radiators.

• Aluminium Radiators

Aluminium radiators are popular for being corrosion resistance and lightweight and are mostly used in modern cars. You get excellent heat dispersion without heavy vehicle weight.

• Copper/Brass Radiators

Brass and copper are one of the best choices for radiators. They offer good thermal conductivity and durability. Statistics show that copper radiators perform around 50% better than aluminium radiators.

1. Crossflow Radiators

Crossflow radiators are most common in modern cars. Their design is coolant entering the radiator from one side and then flowing horizontally through the tubes. The air passes vertically through the fins. A crossflow radiator has a larger surface area of the tubes, so it offers a good heat exchange efficiency.

• Downflow Radiators

Downflow radiators are the traditional radiators that you’ll find in older vehicles. The coolant in these radiators enters from the top and then comes downward vertically through the tubes. The air horizontally flows through the fins. This radiator is common for older models and classic cars.

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How to Replace a Radiator in a Car Step By Step

Car radiator replacement is a simple process that you can complete within 60 minutes. Just follow the steps below to avoid any mistakes:

Step 1 – Prepare Your Materials and Tools

Before replacing the radiator, you must have the following tools ready:

• Radiator drain pan
• New or second hand radiator
• Ratchet and socket wrench
• Flat head screwdriver
• Philips head screwdriver
• Funnel
• Pliers
• Distilled water
• Antifreeze
• Safety glasses and gloves

Step 2 – Properly Park the Car on a Level Surface

Your car must be on a level surface to replace the radiator. Turn off the engine. Find the radiator after opening the car hood. You’ll find the radiator on the front of the car engine.

Step 3 – Drain the Coolant

Loosen the drain plug after finding the radiator. Place the drain pan under the plug to drain all of the coolant from the old radiator. You’ve to drain the radiator completely.

Step 4 – Remove the Old Radiator

You may need to disconnect the reservoir hose, radiator hoses, cooling fan connector, mounting bolts, and transmission cooler lines before removal of the radiator. You can remove the old radiator after disconnection by lifting it out. 

Step 5 – Install the New Radiator Carefully

Reconnect all the previously disconnected parts properly. The hose should be tight, and the radiator hoses should be connected. Add the distilled water and coolant mixture to the radiator. Start the engine and give it time to warm up. Check the level of the radiator and adjust the mixture if needed. 

Don’t forget to inspect damage or leakage and replace the parts if required. Always buy components like radiators, electrical car parts, mechanical parts, etc., from a registered auto parts supplier.

The Common Reasons For The Damage Of A Radiator

There can be different reasons for the decreased efficiency or damage of radiator parts. These can be:

• Frequent overheating
• Sideways or head to head collision
• A broken thermostat
• Pressure cap damage
• Low coolant level
• Radiator leak

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a radiator last in a car?

A car radiator should usually last between 5 to 10 years. However, the life of a radiator can vary based on factors like car maintenance routine, kind of radiator and driving routine. Have regular inspections and change the coolant for a better lifespan.

Is it hard to replace a radiator in a car?

No, replacing a radiator in a car is an easy process that hardly takes 60 to 120 minutes if you follow the instructions properly. But if you feel you can’t replace the radiator yourself, contact a mechanic.

How much does it cost to replace a radiator?

The cost of replacing a radiator in NSW can lie between $350 and $1000. The price varies depending on your car’s make and model as well as the mechanic and location you choose.

Can you drive a car with a bad radiator?

Yes, you can drive a car with a bad radiator. However, a bad radiator means a bad cooling system and engine overheating, which can damage other components. So, it is better not to drive a car with a faulty radiator.

Can I replace a radiator myself?

Yes, you can replace a radiator yourself using the right tools and required skills. But we advise you to consult a professional mechanic to avoid damaging the engine or other car components.