On my 2002 Dodge Neon my radiator is not cracked but I got in and accident and on the top of the radiator theres these nobs that do nothing but one broke off. There is a little hole were it ripped off because my griil bent in and ripped it off. Can't I just seal it. I bought a new radiator for 250 bucks and I don't think I need it. Please help.
2007-01-20 06:26:19 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
The hole is smaller than a dime. not even its like a litttle tack.
2007-01-20 06:33:44 · update #1
the hole is on the top plastic part.
2007-01-20 06:42:20 · update #2
If i understand--those nobs are what keeps the top of the radiator in place. until the top brace and grill are repaired there is no point in repairing the radiator--unless it is leaking. As long at the other one has not broken off--there should not be a problem with the radiator falling in.
2007-01-20 06:44:17 · answer #1 · answered by redrepair 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If there is only a mounting tab broken it should be no problem and can likely be fixed easily.
If coolant is leaking out it could still be repaired but may be unreliable and leak in the future. It depends on what you intend to do with the car and if the extra peace of mind is worth it. Most shops repair radiators for a price that is close to that of new ones.
$250 sound like a lot for a new radiator. Check with a radiator wholesaler for the best prices.
For example Civic radiator from dealer $250, Autozone $125, Wholesaler $80
quality for autozone and wholesaler usually the same.
Hope it helps.
2007-01-20 06:38:24 · answer #2 · answered by ksib 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is some radiator seal stuff that you can dump in there and try to see if if works. It looks like little silver peaces, and it seals leaks. But if you have a "hole" i wouldn't count on it working. Expecaly if it is at the top of the radiator. You will end up saving more money in the long run if you just put the new one you bought in, because if your car gets hot and you blow a head gasket and don't know and eventually crack a head, you will need a new motor. That is really going to cost some $$$!!! Good luck!
2007-01-20 06:35:44 · answer #3 · answered by melon 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your radiator isn't leaking antifreeze or water you probably don't need a new one.Check and make sure it's not leaking,because if your car runs dry of water you can possibly burn your engine up.It would be a good idea to have a mechanic take a quick look at it....
Maybe this will help
Tony
2007-01-20 07:01:29 · answer #4 · answered by Tony H 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
On the top of the radiator, is one of these knobs plastic and a part of the shroud, the cover? Or a part of the radiator itself? If it isnt the radiator dont worry about it, but if it is then replace the damaged radiator.
2007-01-20 06:33:47 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Is your car overheating or do you see coolant leaking out?? If Not then dont worry. If so then I would change it now before you get stuck on the road somewhere and it will cost more to repair and Tow to a shop
2007-01-20 06:52:48 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
if the hole is bigger than a cell phone, than ur radiator will just leak out and will not do its job...u probably should replace it after an accident.
2007-01-20 06:29:52 · answer #7 · answered by jon f 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If there is no other damage to the radiator other than what you've described, it can be fixed and doesn't have to be replaced.
2007-01-20 06:29:23 · answer #8 · answered by Yep! 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
if you don't have a coolant leaking any where then your fine, but you mite have a service shop check it out. or rent a coolant checker light to see if your leaking coolant
2007-01-20 15:15:00 · answer #9 · answered by stev12007 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bring it by the shop Monday and I'll have a look.
2007-01-20 06:33:41 · answer #10 · answered by oklatom 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋