New radiator
Hi all. It may be time for a new radiator on my 2003 NB.
It hasn't failed me yet, but it is starting to turn brown. Thankfully, the wealth of posts about it on here allowed me to catch the issue early.
I think. I might have also been in denial for the past month, but I opened the hood yesterday, and it is very clearly turning brown. I can't deny the evidence any longer.
Had to open the hood to check on what I believe to be a coolant leak after I noticed the temperature gauge sitting perfectly in the middle instead of slightly below that (again, thanks Reddit!).
I have a few questions:
-
I know aluminum radiators are recommended. Any tips on which one to get in Europe?
-
The hoses haven't caused any trouble until now, but I'm assuming it would be best to change them?
-
Anything else I should check while the radiator is off?
Thank you!!
Posted Jul 23, 2026, 5:05 AM UTC