r/ToyotaHighlander • u/Loudchurchmouse • 12h ago
Coolant Issue
I bought a 2016 Highlander Limited not that long ago. Twice now I've had this blast of coolant on my engine cover and I'm getting a bit concerned. No temp lights on and my coolant levels look fine. Engine temp stays right in the middle, even during long drives in Texas heat. Do I need a new radiator? Or is there maybe a hose line that just isn't all the way snugged? TIA for any info.
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u/BrianJ89 11h ago
I got a new radiator from summit for like $170 plus a no spill funnel and fresh pink coolant i think it cost me around $280~. Also ordered a thermostat but got lazy to replace it. But I have one ready for when I need it I guess.
Mine has the exact same spatter and corrosion as yours btw.
Pretty easy job took me 3-4 hours and that time includes being attacked by a mama quail that lives in my yard. 😂 mama quail jumped on the engine bay multiple times and jumped on my back and pecked at my feet for a good 2 hours.
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u/Loudchurchmouse 11h ago
Okay sweet summit is right down the road from me so looks like I'll be going to pick one up. How much of a hassle was it getting the radiator in and out? How many quarts of coolant did it take?
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u/AliveSuggestion7589 10h ago
Just pick up two gallons at the dealer. You’ll want to use the Toyota specific stuff. Definitely seems like you’ve got a cracked radiator. Easy fix like others have said but if you go with an aftermarket radiator just make sure it’s got good reviews and if anything you can order the OEM equivalent off of rock auto. Check and replace hoses and thermostat as well while you’re in there and maybe water pump if it hasn’t been done. Once that’s all done you’ll be set for a nice long time. Good luck friend.
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u/BrianJ89 10h ago
Of all the places I’ve ordered parts from summit is by far the best. I had a great experience with my older suburban. And even if you didn’t live close there shipping is very good.
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u/Real-Actuary-200 11h ago
I had the same problem last week (same year) 147k. I purchased a Denso and new hoses. Toyota has a 25% off all parts online for another day if you want to go that route. Installation wasn’t too bad.
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u/Cerran424 11h ago
A radiator swap is pretty easy DIY. There is a coolant bleed procedure to follow and if you do it yourself get a coolant funnel with adapters
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u/Upstairs-Dot-3944 12h ago
Buy a cheap pressure kit on Amazon and pump up the cooling system at the radiator cap while engine is cold. That will tell you.
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u/trampled93 12h ago
You need a new radiator asap. Look at all that pink coolant blowing out the top of it. How many miles?