How to Replace a 2000 Cavalier Radiator

The radiator in a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is designed to extract heat from the engine coolant and transmission fluid. It is mounted directly behind the air conditioning condenser in order to achieve maximum cooling efficiency. A small electric fan is attached to the back of the radiator to create additional airflow during low-speed driving. Replacement radiators are available at most auto-parts stores and come in two varieties—new and remanufactured.

Things You'll Need

• Battery terminal wrench
• 10 mm box-end wrench
• Slip-joint pliers
• 5/8-inch flare-nut wrench
• Engine coolant

Instructions

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and unplug the cooling fan electrical connector.

2. Remove the 10 mm bolts holding the cooling fan in place. Lift the entire fan unit out of the car and set it aside.

3. Drain the cooling system. Remove the upper and lower radiator hoses.

4. Loosen the 5/8-inch flare nut fittings on the transmission cooling lines at the radiator. Remove the lines from the radiator.

5. Remove the two 10 mm bolts holding the radiator to the core support. Loosen the 10 mm bolt holding the condenser unit to the radiator and separate the two units. Push the top of the radiator toward the engine until it clears the core support and lift it out of the vehicle.

6. Reverse steps one through five in order to install the replacement radiator.

7. Refill the engine coolant with coolant. Start the engine and test the system for proper operation.

References

• "Haynes Repair Manual-General Motors Chevrolet Cavalier & Pontiac Sunfire: 1995 thru 2004"; Robert Maddox, Mike Stubblefield; 2005