OEM Radiator Life Expectancy

[Chiefrider]

Any thoughts on how long the original radiator should last? My guess is the 24 year old radiator with 185K miles in my truck should probably be replaced! I just noticed a very slight coolant leak, evidenced by a small dark spot appearing under the lower right corner of the rad as you face the front of the truck.

I would normally get on the ground for a thorough look, but a recent injury prevents me from doing just that. For $100, I guess I should just order a new one.

 

[Bear_Gibson]

Typically the plastic tanks will crack, or start leaking at the tank seals. I put a large aluminum one in mine in 2017 for added cooling and piece of mind. I hate plastic radiator tanks. The drain is on that side as well as the washer tank on my 99.

 

[GTyankee]

When you do your research, look around your area for a Radiator Shop.
Not a auto parts store that sells radiators, they are just middlemen

A true radiator shop only deals in new & rebuilt or repaired radiators
If you were to drive to one of the radiator shops, they can & likely will give you options.
They usually can buy a brand new radiator for less than an auto parts store can, because the overhead is less.

 

[Hero6]

Mine original 1998 radiator gave up at about 180k. Like most people, I needed a quick replacement and just bought one from Auto Zone. If I had the downtime, I would have ordered an all aluminum radiator.