Radiator ?: Original or Aftermarket? Does it matter?

[Strider]

My 2005 4Runner with 140k has developed a very very small leak in the radiator. I might find a small drip in the garage every other week.

My question is, is there a difference in buying an original vs. aftermarket radiator in this case? What about the coolant? I only ask as I've learned sometimes it is important to stick to original and other times it doesn't matter as much. The price difference is about $100-150.

Thanks for your help!

 

[luke87gt]

I've used parts store radiators and won't do it again.

Stay OEM on a part like a radiator.

 

[WRENCHHEAD]

my mechanic(specializing in toyota) recommended me a koyo branded one when we made the switch on a sienna a few weeks back. mind you my mech is a die hard OEM parts recommender and installer. he suggested the koyo based on his experience with them over the years/ price/ and warranty.

 

[Angstrom]

With almost 170k on my 2006 and no problems, I would say OEM is fine. But I always look at upgrades and if I can upgrade for the same price or slightly more I would upgrade. My last 4runner went for 435k before I sold it and I am hoping for about the same on this one.

 

[Strider]

Thanks for the replies all! I'll probably stay away from the store brand and go OEM or aftermarket that is very similar.

 

[dbd6604]

To the person that recommended Koyo, I agree. Koyo makes excellent radiators. Which they made them for my 2nd Gen.

OP, go OEM or Koyo.

 

[slyfox75]

The OEM is Denso right??
Part Number: 221-3124 V8
221-3117 for V6.

Amazon, Rockauto, etc well under $200 vs $450ish from dealer.

FWIW, I used a spectra brand radiator on wifes Camry.....POS. Plastic had slight leak but you don't know until AFTER you put the mfr in Used some epoxy and it kinda sorta worked but still not a good experience with Spectra Premium.

Oh and coolant......I have used Zerex Asian formula without issue (mixed with what was in engine block).(hard to find around here though, only Oreillys carries it in my area)

 

[wnelax04sr5]

i used an aftermarket radiator (sunbelt) and have had zero issues. its performed exactly the same as my OEM pre leak

 

[jonesmw10]

i used an aftermarket radiator (sunbelt) and have had zero issues. its performed exactly the same as my OEM pre leak

I used this brand as well. Looks to be same quality as OEM..

 

[wnelax04sr5]

I used this brand as well. Looks to be same quality as OEM..

i love toyota oem but radiators are becoming pretty generic parts. i wasnt looking for the cheapest one but it was much less than toyota and has performed perfectly since first start up

https://www.4runners.com/threads/ho...lacement-tranny-cooler-install.349/#post-9383

 

[Strider]

Great write up and YES mine is leaking from the bottom driver side too! Dealer was going to charge $800-1000 so this is a no brainer for $175-225.

Now I just need to figure out which radiator to get, I see the one reference right above, Denso and also the Koyo or Toyo one.

Thanks All!