Radiators are critical but not expensive. Opt for the highest available quality.
Radiators come in different sizes and thicknesses, and some send coolant through multiple passes in the same radiator. At the end of the day, their design and function are the same.
Small cars with small engines require small radiators. Big trucks with large engines need larger radiators. What’s universal is that all cars need radiators to prevent the engine from overheating.
See our
detailed step-by-step guide and video
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about how to replace a radiator. And learn
how to know if your radiator is bad
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What types of car radiators are available?
Single-pass:
With a single-pass radiator, the coolant only flows in one direction through the radiator. Coolant enters on one side and exits the other. This type is the most common.
Multi–pass:
A multi- or dual-pass radiator runs the coolant through the tubes multiple times. A dual-pass radiator sends coolant from one side to the other, then back out the first side. Add another loop and you have a triple-pass radiator. Coolant runs through the radiator at a higher speed and pressure, working more efficiently. These radiators require a more powerful water pump to send the coolant through its route. A triple-pass radiator is usually only needed for a high-performance engine.
Dual-core:
A dual-core radiator has two layers of tubes that the coolant runs through, one in front of the other. It is thicker than a single-core radiator. While a dual-pass radiator sends coolant through the same area twice as fast, a dual-core radiator is sending coolant at normal speed through twice as much area. A dual-core radiator can react more quickly to changing temperatures.
Regardless of type, most modern vehicles use a crossflow radiator design. The coolant flows horizontally across the radiator from an inlet tank to the outlet tank. In a downflow radiator, an older design, the coolant drops from the top to the bottom. A downflow layout is easier to manufacture but is typically less efficient.
How do you find a radiator that fits your car?
The
eBay Parts Finder
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makes things easy. First, enter your vehicle’s year, make, model, engine, and trim. Then, the eBay parts finder allows you to search for radiators that fit your vehicle. Your vehicle’s repair manual also indicates the correct parts number.
Pay attention to the inlet and outlet piping diameters and the radiator’s location. The mounting tabs and brackets on the new radiator should align with the existing bracket size and locations.
Radiators are made from copper or aluminum. Aluminum resists rust but can corrode if you don’t use the right antifreeze. Aluminum is lighter, stronger, and less expensive. Many radiators have plastic inlet and outlet tanks. However, plastic is subject to cracking.
What should a new radiator should cost?
The cost of a new radiator depends on the quality of the materials and the design. For a smaller radiator designed for an economy car, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200. Radiators for specialized or high-end vehicles start between $300 and $600.
If you are upgrading your radiator, you might encounter added expenses. Going from a single-pass to a multi-pass radiator might require an upgraded water pump. A dual-core radiator may take up more space in your engine bay and other parts might not fit. You might find that upgrading your fan is enough to get a stock radiator to increase its cooling capacity.
Be Careful With a Used Car Radiator
If you have an older vehicle with a hard-to-find radiator, your options might include repairing or purchasing a previously owned unit.
You can save money by purchasing a used radiator. However, it is important to assess a used radiator's condition.
Are its vents dented? A dented fin doesn’t perform cooling, making that area of the radiator non-functional. Do you see signs of rust or corrosion? If the exterior of the radiator is rusty, the small tubes inside could be compromised. This can cause issues by expelling dirt and grime into the cooling system via the coolant.
Check that a used radiator is free of leaks. The tubes through which the coolant runs are susceptible to deterioration, especially if the radiator was subjected to extreme weather. Small leaks can turn into bigger ones. Before installing a used radiator, pressure-test it for leaks.
Unless you want to keep the car period-correct and only want original parts, consider a new replacement radiator to eliminate worries.
Related Parts and Accessories
An OEM fan shroud may cost more than an inexpensive aftermarket unit, but the quality level will be factory spec.
When you inspect your radiator, also check the radiator fan. If you are already replacing the radiator, it’s easy to replace the fan at the same time.
Are all the fan blades in good condition? Does it spin freely? If not, the radiator could fail. eBay Motors has a wide range of kits that include both the radiator and fan—everything you need to replace both components at the same time.
If you’re swapping out the radiator, replace the hoses at the same time.
If you’re replacing your radiator, consider also replacing the following items.
Fan shroud:
Most radiators rely on a shroud, typically made from plastic, to help shape the airflow through the radiator. The shroud matches the fan to help maximize the airflow across the radiator. A broken or missing fan shroud contributes to overheating.
Radiator fan clutch:
Some vehicles use a clutch to cycle the radiator fan on and off, depending on if the car is idling or getting hot. Consult your repair manual. A replacement ensures that your cooling system works as intended.
Radiator hoses:
Radiator hoses are susceptible to deterioration over time. Regularly check your radiator hoses for cracks. You might see visible holes, wet spots, or white residue from old dried-up coolant leaks. High-quality replacement hoses prevent leaks and protect your radiator from dirt and road debris. See
instructions and a video about replacing radiator hoses
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.
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