South End Auto Inc

Can you take the radiator out of my car?

Unfortunately, we don't work on your car. We can recommend a shop that will remove and replace your radiator. Our shop is basically for the do-it-yourself mechanic.

Can you fix my radiator?

Yes, probably, maybe. We can fix almost any radiator except large semi trucks and heavy equipment (please see FAQ about large radiators). Please read on to find out more on radiator repairs.

How much does a repair cost?

Most repairs range between $12.50 and $80.00. This is a question we cannot answer until we see your radiator and give you a free estimate. Please read more to find out your problem and get a better idea on price.

What is the difference between aluminum and a copper/brass radiator?

A copper/brass radiator is usually painted with special heat transfer black paint. Both the ends (tanks) and core will be black. It is more susceptible to corrosion than aluminum. An aluminum radiator usually has a silver colored core with black plastic ends (tanks). Aluminum radiators were introduced in the mid 1970’s and are becoming more and more popular.

What goes wrong with radiators?

Of course there is the traffic accident that cause holes and deforms radiators causing leaks. Also, many radiators plug up just like a slow running drain. The cause is usually poor cooling system maintenance. When a plugged radiator tries to cool, it is subjected to high temperature and this causes high pressure. It blows up just like a balloon. When the engine it shut off, the radiator cools and contracts. All this flexing causes seams to crack, tanks to deform, and gaskets to leak.
Corrosion is another factor. The ph of the coolant affects the corrosion rate of your radiator. The higher the ph, the more your radiator is subjected to electrolysis. People complain about a rock hitting their radiator core and causing a leak. A mechanic will complain that he dropped a screwdriver and it barely hit the radiator core causing a leak. This is the result of a weak core that has been subjected to corrosion. Even radiators with proper ph coolant will corrode (only at a slower rate). The bottom line is that radiators are like tires. The more you use them and the older they get, the more worn out they are.

How do you test a radiator?

First, we hook the radiator to a flow test meter. This tells us how many gallons per minute of water are flowing through the radiator and if it sufficient to cool your engine. Second, we fill the radiator with air pressure and dip it into a tank of water. This tells us if there are any leaks.

My radiator was lightly damaged in a traffic accident. How much will it cost to repair?

If it is a copper brass radiator and damaged in the core, the repair price is usually $12.50 per damaged tube. If you have aluminum core damage, it is probably not repairable. If a tank is damaged, the price is usually around $50.00 to replace a tank for both copper/brass and aluminum.

My radiator doesn’t leak but my car overheats. How much will it cost to repair?

First the radiator will be tested for flow. If flow is restricted we will try to pressure clean the tubes. Again we will flow test the radiator. If flow is sufficient, we will test for leaks. If no leaks are present the charge is generally $12.50. If flow is still insufficient, we will recommend “rod out” and we will not charge you for the pressure cleaning. “Rod out” is the process of removing one tank and inserting steel rods into the tubes to clear the debris. Then the tank is reinstalled. The cost for “rod out” is generally $50.00 to $75.00.

My radiator sprung a leak in the core for no apparent reason. What is the cost for repair?

Generally this means the core is corroded. It is probably time for a new radiator. However for those on a limited budget, we can repair the leak for approximately $12.50 per tube, install industrial strength stop leak (for no charge), and recommend a lower rated pressure cap for $5.00. There is no guarantee on this type of repair.

My radiator sprung a leak at the tank seam. How much will this repair cost?

If the core is in solid shape we will recommend a “rod out”. To fix it properly the whole tank has to be removed and reinstalled. In the case of an aluminum core, the gasket and possibly the tank must be replaced. In copper/brass the tank is removed, cleaned, re-tinned, and replaced. As long as one tank is removed we will insert steel rods into the tubes to assure proper water flow. The cost ranges generally from $50.00 to $75.00.

If the copper/brass core is in marginal shape, we can re-solder the seam usually for $12.50. We will also recommend a lower pressure cap for $5.00. There is no guarantee on this type of repair.

Do you boil out or hot tank radiators?

No, this has very little effect on the inside of the radiator but does a good job on cleaning the outside. About the same effect can be obtained with a pressure wash at your local car wash. You can even pressure wash the radiator while it is in the car. Make sure not to get the nozzle too close to bend or damage the radiator cooling fins.

How much is a new replacement radiator?

We have the best prices in town! New radiators range from as little as $60.00 to over $300.00 depending on the vehicle they fit. We have over 3000 radiators in stock. Blem radiators are also a good buy. They are a new radiator that may have some slight damage from freight or handling. They have been repaired to function like new with about a 30% savings over a new radiator. Used radiators are another option costing a fraction of new price.

Do you sell transmission coolers?

Yes, the heavy-duty models start at $25.00

Do you sell heaters?

Yes, we have a full line of new heaters. Prices for new heaters start at $28.00. If your radiator is corroded, chances are your heater is not far behind.

Do you repair heaters?

Usually no, but we can install a brand new core into your heater. This is mostly done for heaters that are obsolete new.