Radiator, rust problem or not?

keony · Nov 29, 2014

The paint/coating on the radiator fins has peeled off and is rusting in several areas. Should I try to repaint it or is this fairly normal wear and tear?
Not sure if I'm just borrowing sorrow or does this need to be addressed.
Thanks. No significant snow yet in Washington Co. MD...

Gary Fowler · Nov 29, 2014

All radiators I have ever seen are either brass or aluminum and they don't rust. Could be that your radiator is leaking rusty water from the radiator. This should also not be happening if the anti-freeze has been changed regularly. Photos of the "rust" would help.

oliver28472 · Nov 29, 2014

I've never seen a radiator that is made of anything that rusts. You might have a small leak showing rust in the coolant from your engine block. Anytime I take a radiator to have it rodded out I tell them do not paint it.

keony · Nov 29, 2014

Gary Fowler said:
All radiators I have ever seen are either brass or aluminum and they don't rust. Could be that your radiator is leaking rusty water from the radiator. This should also not be happening if the anti-freeze has been changed regularly. Photos of the "rust" would help.

Okay, that's reassuring. Coolant is good, so maybe I can ignore the "rust". I think the paint is factory OEM. I'm probably worried about nothing. No leaks and engine doesn't run hot. Thanks Gary and Oliver.