How to Remove the Radiator From a Honda Civic

The radiator on a Honda Civic works to cool the car and keep it from overheating. When the radiator is cracked or broken, it must be removed to be replaced. A broken radiator can cause an engine to overheat and cause damage to multiple parts. Radiator specialty shops charge a high fee for removing the radiator from a car.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Ratchet/socket set
• Catch pan or bucket
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Raise the front of the Civic up with a jack, and place a jack stand under each side behind the tires so that the frame rests on the stands.

2. Drain the coolant from the radiator into a pan or bucket. If the coolant is new or in good condition, save and reuse it.

3. Disconnect the cooling fan switch by unplugging the electrical connection. Remove the hoses to the radiator by loosening the hose clamps near the end of the hoses with pliers. Remove the cooling fan.

4. Unbolt the bolts at the top of the radiator near the top crossmember of the Civic. If your Civic has air conditioning, unbolt the bracket that connects the air conditioning refrigerant.

5. Lift the radiator out carefully so the edges and sharp corners don't scratch the paint on the Civic.

Tips & Warnings

• Disconnect the negative cable from the car's battery to reduce the risk of electric shock before working on the radiator.