How to Replace a Radiator in a Nissan Pathfinder

If you take good care of your Nissan Pathfinder, it will last for many years. Part of this means taking care of problems, such as a damaged or corroded radiator, as soon as they arise. If you have some mechanical know-how, you may want to try replacing the radiator yourself. Here's how to replace the radiator in the 1996 to 2004 model Nissan Pathfinder.
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Jack and jack stand
Wheel blocks
Resealable container
Replacement hoses, if necessary
Replacement radiator
Antifreeze
Distilled water
1

Raise the front of the Pathfinder with a jack and place it securely on a jack stand. Block the rear wheels to keep them from rolling. Remove the undercover and the suspension member stay so you have access to the bottom of the radiator.
2

Locate the plug on the bottom of the radiator. Loosen the plug and let the engine coolant drain into a resealable container.
3

Disconnect the lower radiator hose and upper radiator hose. Take a few minutes to check the hoses. If you notice wear, cracking or bulging, it's a great time to change the hoses.
4

Remove the radiator shrouds, both upper and lower. If your Pathfinder has an automatic transmission, remove the oil cooler hoses. Disconnect the reservoir tank hose and take off the radiator mounting bracket.
5

Lift the radiator carefully out of the vehicle.
6

Install the new radiator and reinstall all engine components in the reverse order that they were removed, being sure to tighten all bolts and clips securely.
7

Fill the engine with a mix of half antifreeze and half distilled water. Leave the radiator cap off, start the engine, and let it warm up for several minutes. Check the fluid levels and top off, if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

If engine coolant isn't old or contaminated, you can reuse it. If you choose not to recycle the coolant, take it to a garage or hazardous waste center where it can be properly disposed of.

Be sure to keep antifreeze in a sealed container out of the reach of children and pets, and if any is spilled, clean it up immediately. Cats and dogs are attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze, which can be fatal if ingested.

Be sure the engine of your Nissan Pathfinder is completely cool before replacing the radiator because the hot liquid and pressurized steam can cause serious burns. It's also a good idea to wear gloves and protective clothing.