GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Aluminum Radiator Diagnosis

Some core leaks can be detected by adding water to the radiator.

Clean the core so that the damaged area can be found more easily.

  1. Remove debris from the fins with a common water hose without a nozzle. (Excessive water pressure could damage the fins.)
  2. Scrub the core with a soft-bristle brush using clean hot water, or hot water with a mild detergent solution.