How To Replace a Radiator, and Fill Cooling System

[@HumbleMechanic]

Thank you guys so much for watching. Nothing like seeing the payoff for following your own advice. HA There is a reason I do the weird things I do. ;)

[@maveric0738]

HumbleMechanic will you be doing a heater core on the R32 as well as a video?

[@kevinc7632]

For the love of god, deal with those cloudy headlights lol

[@adammaultasch6833]

HumbleMechanic my check engine light just went on for my 2014 cc 2.0 turbo. Had it checked at advanced auto and the computer said air intake sensor ? Is that the mass air flow sensor ? Would a drop in k and n air filter affect this sensor ?

[@carolynekeeler]

Adam Maultasch I’m sure you have figured this out already but I’m pretty sure VWs just don’t like K&N filters. Hopefully you found an answer on one of the VW forums. Also - if you become a Patron of Humble Mechanic/ Charles you get a lot of helpful “bonus” resources. I use them for my Touareg.

[@rickmarshall943]

Where to buy ‘fancy’ body screws? Mine oem driver side body screw is rusty

[@maveric0738]

Once again Charles great job and thorough detailed DIY. Check those coolant hoses too folks as our R32 is going on 15 years old she’s getting old but with a lot of heart!!

[@newgardener]

@HumbleMechanic Your video was Great. you and Thomas EXOVCDS combined and some persistence got it done! Took 4 hours but most of it was finding tools, eating lunch, helping wife start lawnmower and watching the videos. (2002 Jetta MK4 TDI)

[@flailios]

So many steps just to get to the radiator! My Corolla has a several 10mm bolts for the front bumper cover, 2x 10mm for the top radiator gromets, 4x 10mm for the core support, pop a couple of hoses off the core support from clips and it's free. I was in there a week ago to get behind the radiator for a transmission cooler. It was quick & simple.

[@maneki9neko]

It is always a pleasure to watch you work. So are so very thorough.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Thank you

[@RedondoBeach2]

Charles, this DIY video is exactly what I need. Much appreciated. 👍

[@LONEWOLF-di3ct]

Thank you brother, I will be replacing my radiator on my vw golf 2005 for my first time. I’m glad I came across your channel since it’s a new concept for me. Appreciate your wisdom sir. Thank you

[@bendeleted9155]

Remember when radiators lasted long enough to corrode? Now, the seals at the tank crimp band fail long before corrosion sets in...but they are cheaper.

[@markmbarrios]

Where I live we have lots of shops that replace the plastic ends with metal ones and braze them on 😂

[@JoelCaseyJonesMusic]

ECS makes an all aluminum radiator but it is more expensive. I was in a hurry to get my car running again (commuter) and its right before Xmas so I went with the cheaper nisssens (recommendation of a dub-head I trust). I will say, if I do this job again in any of my 3 Mk4s, I’ll get the all metal one. Plastic to metal is dumb

[@alanbrooks80]

Do you, by chance, have a video on a MK5 R32 radiator removal?

[@aussiebloke609]

After watching this, I _really_ miss the days of "drain rad, remove 2 hoses, remove 2 bolts, then lift rad out. Installation is the reverse."

[@HumbleMechanic]

Yep. Long gone from that. Hell many cars now you have to open the coolant valves to properly bleed coolant

[@holidayhouse03]

That's how it is on my rwd Volvos...plus remove transmission cooler lines. Super easy cars to work on.

[@aussiebloke609]

@HumbleMechanic That's just too much work in my book. Mind you, those old cars weren't exactly powerful...or reliable...or efficient...or comfortable...but at least when you broke down, you could usually get it running on the side of the road with a handful of screwdrivers and wrenches, some duct tape and baling wire, and a bucket for carrying water. These days, they are generally almost completely reliable. Until something eventually does go wrong, at which point you call for a tow, wait a few days for parts, and get ready to kiss your wallet goodbye. Still not sure which is worse - but I'm thinking probably the inconvenience of trying to do repairs weekly if not daily, on the side of the road, in the middle of nowhere, while it's raining...and finding out your 1/2 inch wrench is missing (the ye olde time equivalent of the 10mm socket.) :-)

[@scallen3841]

Or the days of a core charge on a radiator

[@carolynekeeler]

LOL - it's funny because it's TRUE !!

[@Messy_Jesse]

Yo! Mk6 gti. I replaced a bad radiator with a new faulty radiator. :( I used bars which stopped the leak but now temps are getting hotter than I'd like. Polar fis says (new) oil is peaking at 266°, DSG peaks at 226° and radiator is a cool 145°. Also the thermostat guage is going over 190° at the cluster. Can I do a reverse flush to unclog the bars stop leak pellets? Any idea what areas might be getting clogged? Secondary t-stat looked ok. Any suggestions? Thanks

[@timothyjones750]

10" long 3/8" thread bolts from the farm center will thread into the bumper holes to act as slides, add a little teflon tape to make a good fit.

[@RolandElliottFirstG]

Done this many a time, is good to show others the tips and tricks, good work .

[@swaginic2780]

Hi! I just replaced my radiator on my mkv gti. And im wondering how much coolant you think ill need to put back in?

[@afrimexi]

Awesome video! I wish this was out in September. I had to change the radiator in my mom's VW and it was a success.

[@MCOROITDept]

Hi Charles very helpful tutorial as always.My question why my engine get high temperature on stop traffic after as soon star driving get to the normal gauge.

[@celioparker2986]

Your explanation are clear and cool bro ❤

[@myetman]

Excellent video. Love to see one for a MK6 Jetta. My 2013 had a small front end issue and I need to replace the rad support. Seeing your level of detail would be awesome.

[@HumbleMechanic]

I think I did one on a mk5 GTI, it should be REALLY close. LOL

[@myetman]

@@HumbleMechanic Thanks, will look over your video. Hoping i can pull it out with out draining the coolant or refrigerant. If you think of any tips please share. thanks

[@Jay172967]

I just ordered a new aluminum radiator for my hmmwv. Never replaced a radiator before, can i just fill it from the resevior or do i need to "prime" it so to speak like some filters and fill the radiator directly the first time?

[@user-d-docks]

Thanks so much for the great video. I feel more confident tackling my son's 2000 Jetta Radiator now!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Awesome.

[@gbush1620]

Hello, I just replaced the radiator (Mahle Behr) yesterday and go for test drive for Mercedes EClass While turning AC to highest temperature (HI) and Blower Fan low speed, the air is cool. I guess air inside the coolant systems and also running for awhile, I heard high-pitched whirring noise from the radiator. Do you know how to fix it? THANKSS

[@flyonbyya]

Although I’m not a mechanic...I’ve removed and/or changed my share of rads. Never had to remove anywhere near that many parts. How many hours does the book call for this job?

[@joeldk42]

I just paid 5 hrs labour

[@martincalvillo3210]

a really good tip is that you can remove the cap to the reservoir or the radiator if you still have the car running and not have to worry too much about the water boiling over. keep car on, remove cap, turn car off.

[@di5gustipated]

Just did this to my 08 gti on Tuesday. I used the 3411 tool and was it was awesome, didnt need to remove the condenser, just 4 bolts on the shroud and 4 bolts on the radiator itself.

[@nebilex9113]

Where did you find the 3411 tool?

[@auxmike]

Hi Charles. I have a MKVI facelift Jetta. I’m guessing it’s an easier process? 2.slow engine leaves a lot more room , too!

[@jefbondC10]

might be a stupid question but what is the radiator-looking thing in front of the rad? is that the condenser? sorry it is the condenser for the ac

[@puuxexil]

Sorry if this has been done to death but G13 or G12 coolant? I have a '17 Jetta, whose manual says G13 but the coolant bottle says G12, I'm so confused. Thanks.

[@HumbleMechanic]

You are probably using G12++ G13 is dealer. Both will probably be okay

[@puuxexil]

@@HumbleMechanic Got it, thanks for the quick response! I was just trying to be cheap and get the Zerex G-40 (looks like G12++), but they appear to be interchangeable.

[@jhuntosgarage]

My Suburban is doing this right now. A waaaay less complicated procedure, waaaay less expensive; video to follow.

[@theadventuresofjavier8698]

J. Hunto's Garage howdy John

[@jhuntosgarage]

@@theadventuresofjavier8698 Howdy Javier. What's shakin? All good?

[@theadventuresofjavier8698]

J. Hunto's Garage all is well. Email me sometime.. rednkmex @hotmail.com

[@weekaung]

Hi Humble Mechanic, Thank you for the excellent DIY car repair videos for Volkswagens. I have a Golf V 2.0 FSI year 2004 that is overheating. I have changed the water pump, which looks OK but changed it anyways, the thermostat, and have tested the radiator by pulling the bottom hose and running the engine pouring water into the overflow chamber. Hot water flows out from the bottom radiator opening, so I assume the radiator has water flowing through and not blocked in any way. However, on connecting the lower radiator hose, and pouring water into the overflow chamber water does not seem to move into and out the engine. More specifically, the upper radiator hose is hot while the bottom hose is cold. Also, I could only pour around 2 liters of water into the overflow chamber before it becomes full. I have no idea what the problem is anymore, everything seems to be OK but the water would just not circulate in the system. From my observation, the water from the radiator is not being sucked into the engine. Help needed please, thanks. David.

[@weekaung]

Even though I have already replaced the thermostat, which is electronically controlled, is it possible that some other sensor malfunction is preventing the ECU from sending an open signal to the thermostat?

[@connorfinn4006]

Any updates? Lol

[@weekaung]

@@connorfinn4006 Junked the car, too many engine problems could not be fixed. Could be a cracked engine block.

[@turboaccord1]

Can you remove and replace the radiator core support on a 2013 Passat 2.5 with the ac compressor lines intact. Hit something on the highway yesterday and it broke on the right side.

[@mortont1210]

Great video. I had to replace the Engine Coolant Outlet Flange on the 2009 CC. Can you provide a link to those hose clamp pliers. Thank You

[@crimpcreep6887]

Mr. Humble. I have a mk3 Jetta, 2.0. Soon to replace clutch cable. Can I use a non self adjustable cable? Is there one, part number? Thanks, and Merry Christmas and Happy New year to you!😁

[@HumbleMechanic]

You can use the manually adjusted kind. I don’t have a PN for ya but it should be easy to find.

[@suvijsuvij9330]

Is there any vedio showing coolant drain in VW Polo 1.5tdi diesel. Because most of the draining location in vedios are in weird location, which might damage the coolant and will be difficult to reuse. I doubt an issue with the thermostat valve on my car.

[@ShatteredTodd]

Realize this is a cooling vid BUT this is the only vid closest to service position I can find. I’m wondering if I have to do the same procedure (hopefully minus coolant drain) to change my valve cover gasket??? I found a vid on an MKV R32 change but the support removal seems somewhat different. Any advice?

[@Brandonhere1018]

Loved the video. Another hit! this will defiantly come in handy when I have to remove my radiator from my r32. Any chance you were able to test the fans?

[@imwmanish]

Good video sir thank you for sharing video

[@jaymoney7968]

Great video as usual,,,but I have a question regarding,cool down coolant additives ,(VP) is the one I'm considering,,,,ur opinion ,good bad,or indefferent,,,2010passat tsi with dsg , general performance work done upgraded turbo piping truout an turbo muffler delete also ,3 inch cold air intake,turbo blanket,an I have a obdeleven diagnostic tool,,,boost an vacuum gauges ,also alitte under 200 k milage,,,I bought the car used an it looks like someone had a change to the turbo at one piont ,I also upgraded the diverter valve to the newest rendition an the boost solenoid as well an a few other little things, but my real question is it ,1 will it work ,2 could it harm anything ,an 3 will it work LOL ,but really tho ,,any thoughts on the product even if it's worth it ,,an my coolent system is stock with the stock coolent ,,,I live in Mississippi an it gets hot bro like Satan's taint hot lol , again thank you any info will be much appreciated

[@yosvi85]

I hope you do the Euro Headlights with the glass lense.

[@themachine8009]

Is this the same procedure for 03 Jetta GLS 2.0?

[@HumbleMechanic]

Very similar

[@themachine8009]

@@HumbleMechanic thank you for your prompt attention Charles. Love all ur vids

[@MacThreinfhir]

Humble Mechanic, would appreciate your opinion on the coolant refill/air purge tool: Necessary or required? Does not appear that one was used in this video. I’ve replaced my coolant without one and not had any issues, even at hot track days. Thoughts? Thanks!

[@HumbleMechanic]

I recommend it. The newer VWs almost require it to truly bleed all air

[@MacThreinfhir]

@@HumbleMechanic Thanks for the feedback. Didn’t state it but I was asking mostly in regards to mk4 1.8t. Thanks again!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Not super needed on that one. But it will make it easier

[@coolissimo69]

Hey Charles just in time to get your new video tutorial, thanks do much for it.

[@JaguarDieCast]

I like to put a little electric grease on the connectors before plugging them back in.

[@HellaMeiste]

Help me out please :) I cannot fit the new upper plastic connector to radiator, It’s hard I’m worry to break something on radiator any proper way to do before installing the connector? sorry I’m nub but need help now , got new connector from FCP

[@scottmclelland9728]

Have you ever had any issues bleeding the cooling system this way? I used to vacuum fill the systems when I had access to the tools and it never gave me any issues with air pockets but, I no longer have access to them.

[@bendeleted9155]

Scott, good point. I changed radiators on my Forester XT and didn't get all the air out. Next day, I stomped on it and the temp shot way up just as the water pump made a momentary death squeal. Got off the gas and the coolant filled the void without cracking or warping anything, but i think it could have been ugly.

[@KRAUSER0130]

VW uses self-bleeding system, pour some coolant, start the engine and keep adding until coolant level stabilizes, leaving the coolant bottle open while doing so helps get the air out faster, and what you can also do, is squeeze the radiator hoses while engine is running and you're filling it up, helps move air pockets out faster. That's how i do it usually when working on such stuff. Some cars have bleed valves(often located on hoses going to the heater core) or whatever that you open up until coolant starts leaking out, then you know air is completely out, but haven't seen that on my MK3 so.. I hope i helped ;)

[@splendidcolors]

You can get a vacuum tool from ECS Tuning for under $100 and it goes on sale regularly.

[@splendidcolors]

Wow, the C5 A6 and Passat are so much easier to work on!

[@jolugava]

Do you have a video for a 2008 VW TOUAREG radiator support removal?

[@carolynekeeler]

You always use and have the most AWESOME tools, so that’s one of the many reasons I watch your videos. I’m gonna go right now on your Amazon page and buy some of these radiator fixing tools... it’s so cool!! #AwesomeToolPicks 😊

[@HumbleMechanic]

💙💙💙💙💙💙

[@oscarmolina2024]

Hello, Would the same process work for a 2013 2.5l 5cyl Passat SE

[@dosgos]

Awesome video. Condenser questions. Why didn't you blow air through to clear debris & straighten out the fins for better efficiency?

[@HumbleMechanic]

I blew a lot of the junk out. I didn’t straighten the FINS because I will be doing a video on it. 😎

[@dosgos]

@@HumbleMechanic Thanks for the personalised response! I assumed that was edited out as the video already has a ton of detail, as always. I imagine this job took 10x longer than book due to the video recording. Plus editing.

[@Maiko-Yoko]

Im trying to replace the core support on a 2018 Beetle do you know if i have to mess with the AC lines to do that or can i leave them connected and work around it somehow?

[@alfonsohernandez2890]

very good video HumbleEchanic.

[@bernardaflores1720]

How long does the VW radiators last on these cars? great video, nice work!

[@walterbaldemor2128]

Thanks, it helped me alot, your vids are soo clear

[@Bish_OP]

Hi, my fans have packed in and I was wondering how much of this removal I need to do to get the fan shroud and connectors off? Is it possible to do without removing the bumper?

[@d.jbrickmocs1637]

How do you take the air out of the system?

[@isackhernandez3691]

Do you have Video on how you're almost done building off the grid.

[@1300l]

Your car sound like a modern more mean version of Speed Racer Mach 5 ;) I like it .;)

[@Hedgehodge-]

Do you have an aux rad on yours?

[@rickydub6950]

Great guide, slight leak on my pd130 rad. Replaced front end on my 1.8t few years ago, time to delve a bit deeper into the engine bay. Cant wait to change my rad now... NOT! Lol new aircon condenser to order too, would be rude not to while its all out 😑🤣👍

[@Blaylock1988]

I went with a CSF rad with SPAL fans a few weeks ago. It was a ton of work to keep my AC drier though.

[@HumbleMechanic]

I bet. That drier is tucked right up on the rad

[@rlakhay]

Can we get a radiator upgrade change for a mk5 gti (mine is a 2007 edition 30)...eg mishimoto/darkside....etc.....

[@mrfrankferd]

Is this guna be the same on a mk6 gti??

[@leoherrera5542]

How long did this process take?

[@HumbleMechanic]

couple hours.

[@ggv69340]

Hi on a 2020 gti 2.0t can I just add the coolant leave the cap open l and will it blled it self out?? I installed a new rad I was told this gti are fineky I have to beed coolant system.rigth thanks

[@trojangpete8]

I want to see if it is my radiator that is leaking. Can I put the vehicle in service position and the remove the fans. I would like to runs some water through the system to see where the leak is coming from.

[@markmbarrios]

All that work for a radiator swap? Could this be a classic 🇩🇪 over engineering? 😅

[@crimpcreep6887]

No, you can thank wind tunnel testing for body design. That's why All cars look the same and panels are like the plastic snap together models you got as a kid, if your over 40.

[@titiro67]

Do you have a video for 2009 Tiguan Turbo AWD? Thanks for your good work!

[@HumbleMechanic]

I have a few Tiguan videos but not a much

[@MdotAdot]

Must be originally from Mass saying "wicked cool" lol love the vids very informative looking forward to the next

[@musabfeltman1311]

Love the belly pan installation/removal music. 😂

[@micahfernandez3155]

Any chance you will be doing any valvetrain work on this at any point? I'm building a 24v vr6 right now and would love to see some videos on it. They are not the same but close enough!!

[@HumbleMechanic]

To tell you the truth, I really hope not. Lol if I end up doing valvetrain work it’s because something is broken.

[@micahfernandez3155]

Ahh yea makes sense. Hope for your sake you don’t have to!

[@danparden8103]

The green gloves are sweet

[@franktarant6033]

The Amazon link is for large, with no option for XL. Big hands big problems.

[@FenixPajarito]

I did all this but now the hood won't stay lock when closing it it's like if the hood latch is not working.. 🤔 Is there something I have to do? I put the wire back where it should be.

[@biggiefrye45]

Were any 10mm lost in the making of this video? 😂😂

[@allenespiritusanto176]

Where can I find the reservoir of steering wheel for VW 2013 tiguan?

[@miguelbertoni4601]

Not related to the video, but if a polo 6r gti is kicking out 267nm of torque to the wheels. Approximately how my torque will it have at the flywheel?

[@Hedgehodge-]

just did this and lost a few screws and had to drill them out and oscillating saw and dikes to get one off the fan shroud. now the bolts on fan are seized and about to round off sigh.... all parts are rusted on from 2004 lol. Im looking for all the screw part numbers now. Any chance you may be able to assist me PLEASE :D. All screws that go into the core support that we removed minus the 4 heavy duty bolts

[@nimmie3398]

N-908-808-201 & N-905-426-04 Part #’s. Hope it helps

[@Hedgehodge-]

@@nimmie3398 thank you, I actually am about to start piecing it back together, got my part I was waiting on. M6 nuts fit I think they were 1.0 pitch and Id get stainless but the bolts aren't stainless soooo either way corrosion will happen , antiseizethis time! Thanks again for the other numbers

[@troymartin2057]

TLDL: So.... basically, don’t do it yourself. This is why we have professional mechanics! Thanks for the reaffirmation :)

[@billd66]

"Questionable fans" LOL. You talking about me? :D Thanks for posting!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Hahaha

[@Andrew-zv4fm]

Really cool video.

[@nilsguitarsandmandolins5662]

Thanks! I really appreciate these!

[@acoow]

I've replaced a few radiators before, but I've never had to remove anything more than the radiator.

[@earfman7527]

Great video, very informative A++

[@riseagainst816]

Nice video (: I was wondering if you were planning on changing your timing chains at some point

[@HumbleMechanic]

Yeah at some point. Probably when I do a clutch.

[@mkelleyblue]

Where did you get those fancy core support screws?

[@HumbleMechanic]

Oh snap I forgot the link. zealoushardware.com/collections/individual-beauty-washers-1 Also use code “HUMBLEMECHANIC” 5% off all beauty washers

[@mkelleyblue]

Sweet! Thanks man!

[@ryanmatty5739]

Great video !

[@HumbleMechanic]

Thanks

[@Srmisterio27]

Dang!!! Can you take radiator without taking bumper out?

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Im still looking for a 10mm to use!!

[@mcp12300]

"an electric impact, a t25, a t30, a 10mm if you can find it" 😝

[@chrischrysler1680]

🤣🤣🤣

[@gabrielbiniam7900]

Good job

[@Benjammin43]

Many struggles... aftermarket coolant reservoir relocated due to big ol’ intercooler piping in the way of factory one. Can’t see coolant level without removing cap

[@98SV98]

Damn... that’s a bunch of work for just a radiator... On my WRX I only have to remove the two 12 mm bolts that hold the radiator, loosen the two radiator hose clamps and disconnect the two electrical connections for the fans!😂

[@unknownguy1123]

"A ten millimeter if you can find it" 😂😂😂

[@HumbleMechanic]

😎😎

[@larryl2682]

Interesting video

Why not upgrading to a performance rad with all that work ?

[@aliabdallah102]

So my 02 passat (awm engine code) goes through gas worse than my 2000 benz with the 2.8 v6 EVEN WHILE THE BENZ HAD A HUGE VACUUM LEAK only lights on the dash are low coolant and low windshield washer. Any ideas?

[@transtubular]

First: Do you actually have low coolant? That could be a problem, obviously. Second: What is the miles per gallon you are getting? Thirdly: Priorities...are you more concerned about getting bad gas mileage or your engine blowing up?

[@aliabdallah102]

It's goin through an entire tank in 2 days. And the coolant is below the min line but not by much.

[@transtubular]

@@aliabdallah102 WOW! An entire tank in two days??? I'd be looking for a fuel line leak. No way can it burn through that much gas so quickly. Although it could be getting siphoned out too I suppose.

[@transtubular]

Though I would still top off the coolant. I of course mean you should look for ANY sign of a fuel leak, wherever it should be not just check the lines.

[@Hedgehodge-]

Same concept for my mk6 right? I have a mkiv and vi and vi decided it wanted the stimulus lol

[@Hedgehodge-]

Take that as a yes, thank you sir. No idea how I read of people taking this off without removing the bumper, seeing as how there are screws hiding behind it holding it in place

[@Kiwiintersect]

I can’t find MK7 radiator replacement ANYWHERE 😢

[@braddowns17]

Charles I don't see the special funnel link.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Oh good call! Here it is, and I Will add it to the list :) amzn.to/2PjpDcI

[@barackobama7833]

so not worth it for the whole 12 hp that vw puts out. all those torx get all rusty here in michigan and i hate working on them. im subscribed though because your videos are helpful working on pos vw's.

[@Enzo-zh3xk]

Great video but filling and burping cooling is very confusing and not enough info

[@joshualabarr9840]

How simular would my mk4 Jetta GLX be

[@HumbleMechanic]

Very

[@joshualabarr9840]

@@HumbleMechanic this video helped me tremendously with my car. It was exactly the same! Bolt for bolt. I decided to pull the core support, condenser, and the radiator out as one peice. Those quick connects are really slick