Slightly leaking radiator; possible easy fix or simply replace??
 

I have a slightly leaking radiator, about 4-5 tablespoons of coolant at a time. Wasn't sure if anyone recommends trying a stop-leak radiator solution on our cars or not: I'd assume "no" unless a few chime in with positive results....anyone????

Hey dude, I'd just replace it if I were you. No need in putting a band aid over a gunshot wound if you know what I mean.

Whatever "additives" you put in your radiator will also travel throughout the cooling system. Is that a good idea?
Fix the problem IMO

The best thing to do is to get/rent/deposit a coolant pressure tester at AutoZone or similiar. Put 10-12#s of pressure in the system and isolate the leak.

Radiators usually will show leaks at the plastic to metal seam. You might get lucky and could press the tabs tighter along the seam.

The next place the radiator will leak is the coolant overflow nipple on top. It gets brittle or the gasket is bad. Cheap fix. Careful---do not overtighten.

The radiator fan switch gasket fails---same info as above.

Never any stop leak products--never.

GL
John

Don't fool around trying to repair it ,did happen to me I try it's a lost of time & money, plus it could give up on you rigth in the middle of a traffic jam you can guess the result if it does (towing is expensive ) almost the price of a new rad depending on the distance.And like mention no stop leak ever.Jonh is rigth that where it will give up 95% of the time( check the upper corner) driver side.:)

New rad. Your car will thank you.

Ernie and Slam are correct. Plastic side tanks are hard to repair and susceptible to break/leak again.

I had a leak at one of the plastic side tanks and put the stop leak stuff in there. It lasted for like 2 weeks and had to replace the radiator anyway.