I have a 2002 Toyota Camry XLE 2.4L engine 186k miles that has a small coolant leak. I have identified the location of the leak. It is coming from somewhere around the top of my radiator on the left side (facing the engine) where the plastic shroud meets the metal. All hoses, the reservoir, and the water pump and radiator cap check out without a leak, so this is the only location that I have found.
I want to confirm that the radiator is what is at fault here before I go ahead and buy the radiator. I intend on replacing the radiator, upper and lower hoses (they’re old so they’ll go out sooner rather than later!) and the thermostat.
If I do replace the radiator, a couple of questions
- Do I have to worry about changing the transmission fluid since it is routed through the radiator?
- Even though I have no issues with heat, do I need to do anything with my heater core hoses?
- Good source for torque specs on this job?
- Any extra advice on radiator replacement?