Drove approximately 30 miles down the motorway today to visit parents. About 3 hours later I got in the car and upon start up I got a warning to check coolant level. The coolant tank was totally empty, looking into the engine bay the fluid was on the floor pan all leaked down the radiator side (passenger side uk). After refilling and checking for leaks it seems the radiator itself is leaking down one side. 

I have looked up how to replace it myself and wondered, is it as easy as it looks to do or would I be better off taking it to a mechanic? The process look quite straightforward, more or less plug and play or am I missing something. 

Thanks for any help offered

Edited November 1, 2025Nov 1 by digg3r

Easy? That depends how much mechanical aptitude you have. I'm guessing you have never done anything like it so perhaps put a day aside for the job.

You'll need to remove the front of the car to do it. 

1 minute ago, Steve Q said:

You'll need to remove the front of the car to do it. 

Apparently not, I have seen multiple videos showing the radiator being swapped out by just removing the airbox and snorkel.. I bought the car from a used car dealers so taking it to him on Monday. Going to tell him it needs a new radiator, I'm just concerned he will probably tell his mechanic to stick some radweld in it and jobs done. 

9 minutes ago, digg3r said:

 I bought the car from a used car dealers so taking it to him on Monday. Going to tell him it needs a new radiator, I'm just concerned he will probably tell his mechanic to stick some radweld in it and jobs done. 

If you bought from the dealer within the last 30 days you are entitled to a free repair or a refund. Given the size of the leak I doubt Radweld would seal it.

5 minutes ago, cliffcoggin said:

If you bought from the dealer within the last 30 days you are entitled to a free repair or a refund. Given the size of the leak I doubt Radweld would seal it.

I know that..... you know that...... Just to add light to my situation. Im a relatively new driver from Bradford buying a used car in Bradford. The car is absolutely mint except for the radiator issue. That is why I was considering buying the radiator and fitting it myself. Im not convinced I will get a satisfactory repair. Time will tell I guess 🤷‍♂️

Update.... the dealer is collecting my car tomorrow and fitting a new radiator for me 🙂