So in my 2002 SC430 I noticed my radiator was leaking at the seams (on the top, it was visible). Noticed it purely by accident by opening the hood after the car was well warmed up.

Turned out it had a crack in it (which you could only see after you removed it).

Dealer wanted nearly $900 for an OEM radiator (parts and labor), or $650 for an aftermarket radiator (parts and labor).

I had an independent mechanic install a new Denso radiator for a bit under $400 (parts and labor).

Interesting thing is that the car wasn't overheating or throwing a check engine light. I figure a disaster has just been averted, since I would have noticed the problem only after it was too late.

With summer coming - check your radiators.

 

Probably just started but you would have noticed a leak sooner or later and smelled it.

 

momssc is right. Leaks don't cause overheating until the fluid is low (or gone). Radiator cracks occur from age and use (and defects). I'm glad that you caught it early Jasone.

 

Just replaced mine Saturday. Also had a leak at the top on the engine side. After the engine warmed up it would start to get wet along the meeting point between the plastic top and the aluminum body of the radiator and eventually drip down both sides. My wife smelled anti-freeze and I also caught it early.

It was a piece of cake to change it out. Used what I believe is the original equipment radiator, a KOYORAD unit purchased for around $165 w/ free shipping. With a gallon of Toyota red anti-freeze it was less than $200 total.

I was going to do a complete block drain and flush but I couldn't see the block drains, which are located almost dead center between the two center cylinders on either side of the block.

The self-adhesive foam that was used on the four side of the radiator to create a seal and direct air through the radiator instead of some air escaping around the sides didn't come with the unit. But after driving it I didn't notice any difference in the position of the temperature gauge when the engine has reached operating temperature so I guess it really isn't necessary.

 

great advice to us owners who have aging SCs!