So I own a 2008 Toyota Avalon with 145,000. About a month ago I replaced my radiator because the original radiator was cracked on the top. I replaced it with a Duralast radiator from Auto Zone. About 2 days later I noticed this radiator was leaking on the bottom. I was worried that I might of had a bad water pump or other bad part that caused the radiator to over pressurize so I ended up replacing the water pump (OEM), the thermostat (OEM), the radiator hoses, the radiator (Duralast Warranty Replacement), and brand new coolant. This was all replaced about 2-3 weeks ago. I just noticed that this new Duralast radiator is leaking again. My question to you is, do you think this cheap low quality radiator is the reason its leaking or could there be another issue? I obviously need to replace the radiator but do I buy a higher quality OEM radiator or do I get another Duralast radiator since its under warranty. Any advice or answers would be super helpful. Thank you for all your videos and all the knowledge you share.
Mark
Get a leak dye test kit to make sure where the leak is coming from. You never mentioned if you replaced the radiator cap. Did you?
I did not replace the radiator cap. I will replace that next. I found the leak on the radiator and see it at the bottom at the same location as the previous radiator that leaked. I also replaced all the radiator hose clamps as well.
They were probably both made on a Friday afternoon, or a Monday morning. Why not pressure test them before installing them if you're concerned about their integrity. Forewarned is forearmed.
Ill pressure test it when I get the new one (not duralast). Problem is, this is my only vehicle so I need to drive it to and from work during the week. Ill be adding coolant all week until I can pull it. Have you had any experience with Duralast Radiators?
No, I always buy Murray or Spectrum. As long as it comes with a lifetime limited warranty.