Hello Everyone,

I have been a long time reader and you all have helped me so much over the years. I am hardly a mechanic, but with your help I have done much over the years. And now, I have finally signed up to ask for some advice/ help!

I have a 2003 TL Base (not California), 124,000 miles.

It needs a new radiator (I noticed the top was always wet around the seal, and finally a few days ago my temp red lined. I pulled in to pepboys, got some coolant, and found it was almost 1 gallon low! ...time for a replacement!).

I want to make sure I am replacing everything I should while I am in there/ the coolant is drained (and not doing unnecessary work).

I am planning on getting:

1. Radiator cap - mine literally broke in two - Stick with Acura?
2. Thermostat - I have no idea if I need one - Good precaution? Stick with Acura? or leave well enough alone and don't touch it?
3. Both upper and lower hoses - again stick with acura?

I am also wondering, should I replace the thermo sensor (part # 37760-p00-003 ) and/ or water sensor (part# 37870-PK2-015 ) while I am in there? Or should I leave them alone? I am not sure if I need to drain the coolant to do those and they would be a pain later. At the same time they are $70 each and Christmas is coming....

Thank you all for any opinions/ advice you can give!

-D

 

^
Just for giggles and an FYI, I priced, for your 03 TL, a Denso radiator; Gates upper/lower hoses; Stant Rad. Cap; and Aisin thermostat for $99.07 on RockAuto.com before shipping. That does not include the additional 5% coupon located in the 'Vendor' directory. Seriously consider RA if you DIY and save $$.

 

Hi Zeta,

I really appreciate it. I checked out Rock Auto too...unfortunately, we need the car to drive ASAP and I am spending double to have parts Tuesday versus Friday. The killer was the Thermostat. Although, I read here in multiple posts that people say to get the Acura one versus aftermarket. I have no idea if it makes a difference, although I am hoping I never have to replace it again.

Any thoughts on the Thermo and Water sensors?

Thanks!

 

So I got a new radiator in there (Denso) but now it seems loose- it is like the rubber pads under it or on top (under the two braces on the left and right) may be too thin? It has some play to wiggle forward and back and I do not think that is good. Any thoughts anyone? ..and lucky me, I hav ean extra screw after getting it back together lol. Acura included extras when they build the cars ...right???