1996 Camry I-4 LE Radiator Leaking

LynchburgCSI · #1 (**permalink**) 03-14-2008, 01:01 PM

Recently my check engine light went on in my 1996 Camry LE I-4. I turned off about a week later. Just when I thought I was safe, I noticed that my radiator is leaking coolant through a crack near the cap on top of the raditor, and there's still no check engine light. Werid. If i run the car for more than say, 10 minutes or so, it starts steaming out of the crack and it drains the coolant reservior really quickly. I guess i'm asking what the cheapest fix is. As far as I know there is no damage to the radiaor fins. Maybe I could just have some one pull it out and weld it shut (although it seems some type of black protectant paint has worn off in the area of the crack)? Or should I replace the whole thing? Thanks ahead of time!

Marty358 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-14-2008, 07:11 PM

The local radiator shop told me a few years ago that most radiators last about 120,000 miles. If you are in that mileage, buy a new one. If you are alot lower than that, they may be able to put a new tank on for you instead of buying a new one. Remove and replace the radiator yourself and you will save alot of money and it isn't hard.

DFBonnett · #3 (**permalink**) 03-15-2008, 10:02 AM

OP,
Be aware that the CEL and the leaking rad are likely coincidental.

AZNTundra · #4 (**permalink**) 03-15-2008, 11:24 AM

i bet more than likely the check engine light is on because of the oxygen sensor... as for the radiator... just buy a new one... i think i got mine from autozone for like 130 bucks... i had the exact same issues with my 95 camry right before i traded it in

but for the o2 sensor... i am just guessing... you really need to check the codes that your ecu is pulling...