Repairing, recoring or replacing your car radiator

Car radiators can become damaged over time, and this will effect the efficiency and function of your engine. But if your car radiator has an issue, should you think about repairing, recoring or replacing your car radiator?

When should you consider repairing, recoring or replacing your car radiator?

Repairing, recoring and replacing your car radiator are three different options to consider when you encounter problems or issues with this. From rust to cracks and leaks, there are a number of signs that your car radiator is no longer in good condition, and as a result is likely to need professional attention. But when is repairing possible, instead of a full replacement? And when is recoring the best possible solution? Well, these are three different services, and each will involve different processes to tackle different issues.

When should you repair your car radiator?

A car radiator can be repaired when damage is only minimal, and this is why its important to try and spot a car radiator issue early, so that the damage will not spread. With a repair, the job will only be as good as the team you hire, so make sure to take your vehicle to a professional team with a proven track record for radiator repair, like us here at MRS Heat Transfer.

When should you replace your car radiator?

In some situations your car radiator will not be able to be repaired due to the extensive damage caused by a leak, crack or corrosion. As a result, your car radiator will need a full replacement. Although this is often more costly than a repair, you will likely get more longevity out of a replacement, and this can even contribute to the resale price of your vehicle.

When should you recoring your car radiator?

If your car is a vintage model, or if the right car radiator for your vehicle is no longer available it may be necessary to recore your car radiator instead, especially if there are significant issues, such as:

  • Multiple severe leaks
  • A large number of damaged fins
  • Several blockages

The process of recoring your car or vehicle radiator requires a lot of intricate precision work. The old core will need to be removed carefully from the existing header and brackets, and then a new, clean core will need to be constructed to specifically fit your existing headers. In some cases, the headers themselves may need some adjustments and modifications, before the new core is assembled. But once this is all complete, your recored radiator should work like a brand new radiator.

Should you repair or replace a leaky radiator?

The decision whether to repair your car radiator or to replace this completely generally comes down to three different questions:

  • How bad is the damage?- It is possible for a car or vehicle radiator to become damaged beyond repair and in this instance a replacement will be necessary. However, some leaks can be repaired quite easily, and a new radiator may not be necessary.
  • How much will it cost?- generally a replacement will cost more than a repair so if budget is an issue you may decide to opt for a repair first, and try to avoid a replacement.
  • How long will it last?- If your radiator is damaged it can be important to consider how long any repair work would last to determine if this is a good idea. A replacement will last far longer, and as a result, a repair may not be as cost effective.

For more information or for professional car radiator or auto air conditioning repair, get in touch with the team today, here at MRS Heat Transfer.