2004 Toyota Avalon 168,000 miles
Having the timing belt and water pump (Asin) replaced on my Avalon today. The shop called to inform me that upon inspection the interior of the radiator (original) indicates the need for replacement, and while doing the job he recommends replacing the radiator hoses (original). This is a shop that specializes only in Toyotas and they prefer to use OEM parts.
I am in agreement that the radiator and hoses need replacing, but now that I am retired and driving only 5,000 miles per year, do you think it is necessary to use oem radiator and hoses, or is there a reputable aftermarket brand that you could recommend?
If you want to go OEM that will be best but if you want to do aftermarket you should go with Gates. But for sure stay away from Dayco they fit very poorly.
Thank you, what about the radiator... OEM or aftermarket?
I would recommend an aftermarket I suggest a Murray from O'Reilly or sometimes Amazon brand one or a Carquest from Advance Auto Parts One stay away from Duralast at AutoZone. Also buy your coolant from Walmart it will be much much cheaper than the auto parts store.
@wya12308 Thanks again. I needed to make a decision about 3 hours ago so they could get the parts as they were already working to replace the timing belt, etc. so I decided on OEM...after all the original lasted 19 years and 168K miles.