My radiator failed in a similar manner. I tried clay epoxy, but it wouldn't stick due to the leaking coolant. All you would be doing however is buying yourself more time to save up for the replacement. I just replaced mine because I didn't want to have to worry about it. Remember, you will still have 17 year old plastic on the sides subject to substantial heat, which just means a much higher risk of cracks elsewhere as well.

How do I know if I need a radiator with an engine oil cooler or not?

Does it matter what brand I get if I replace it?

I don't think you do. You will see transmission lines on the passanger side of the radiator. If you see a set just like it on the drivers side, you will probably notice them going to the engine. In that case, you would need one with the integrated oil cooler as well. I believe the supercharged engines were usually the ones that had those, and even then it was hit or miss.

Ah, I don't think I do then. I'd have to double check, but I think the upper radiator hose is the only thing connecting to the radiator on the passenger side.

Coolant sensor port? I'm assuming that is what is running my temperature gauge?

That would be the coolant level sensor. Doubt you have one of those as well. Would be on the passenger side radiator tank, you should see a plug with wires coming off of it, or else it will just have a plastic filler in there.

Yeah, I doubt I do either. Are the advantages of a complete aluminum radiator that much better? They are actually cheaper than the OEM. Does complete aluminum mean even the tanks on the sides are aluminum, or just the fins are aluminum? Aluminum is lighter but also a worse conductor therefore dissipates less heat, is that accurate?

Here'* the OEM


If has the engine oil cooler, but it'* okay if I don't user them, correct? Because that'* just the oil flowing into and out of the radiator.. nothing coming in.. nothing leaking out? Can't find the warranty.. Only thing I don't like.

Complete aluminum, no coolant level sensor or engine oil cooler:


Then there'* Autozone.. more expensive, but limited lifetime warranty. The thing I love about Autozone is even if it shouldn't be covered under the limited warranty, I can surely find someone in the store who doesn't care enough to argue with me and exchange it anyway

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par..._6946%2C135414

Which would you guys recommend?

The amazon pics look like plastic side tanks anyway. I just got the autozone unit myself, just so I wouldn't have to futz with it anymore. I also had an issue with the radiator in the Tempo, that the lifetime radiator failed 3-4 times. Radiator change was a cakewalk on that car though.

It all depends on what you want to spend now, and how long you plan to keep the car.

Ordered the OEM replacement. I think it has a year warranty. If it lasts that long hopefully it'* a good unit. If not I'm $35 + tax towards my next one