1. Who are Nationwide Radiators
Based in Victoria, but with distribution centres in every mainland state, Nationwide Radiators have been specialising in radiators since 1987. Our expertise is unmatched, meaning the part we deliver to you will be right first time, and all of our radiators come with a no-nonsense, two-year guarantee, or up to 5 years with warranty extension.

2. Is this just for the automotive trade?
Absolutely not. While many of our biggest clients are automotive repairers who value the cost savings and hassle-free service provided by Nationwide Radiators, we also supply direct to car owners, who would rather repair their vehicles themselves or save by chasing up the parts needed themselves. In fact, because of our twenty years experience, we can often provide the necessary advice to make changing your own radiator simple and problem-free.

3. How do I find what I want?
Simple. Just follow the link to our home page and select from the catalogue. Nationwide Radiator's eCatalogue is a simple to use interface that will quickly identify the radiator you need for your vehicle. We will also show you the price you will pay, and remember this is delivered to your door, so no more nasty surprises. If you can't find what you want in our catalogue, just call or email us with the details of your vehicle and we will find it for you. It couldn't be easier.

4. Can I install the new radiator myself?
There are a few simple steps that need to be applied when fitting a new radiator. The first and most important is to try to analyze why the old radiator has failed. Replacing a radiator without fixing the problem may cause your new radiator to fail prematurely. This may involve replacing the thermostat, a very common fault causing overheating and radiator failure.
All new radiators require the cooling system to be completely flushed with at least fresh water. Then, the required amount of correct coolant, as per manufacturer's specifications, needs to be added.
Another thing we do with any installation is replace the top and bottom radiator hose clamps. Mild steel clamps often jam up inside and do not create the necessary pressure on the hose, causing leakage or possibly the hose coming off altogether.

5. Should I change the thermostat?
Our simple answer is yes. This doesn't mean that they are always faulty, but very often a failed radiator, or an overheating car, or any blockage can cause a thermostat to fail, or a faulty thermostat can cause a car to overheat and the radiator to fail. Some people believe they can be removed and tested, however the problem is that the thermostat may open under test, then jam again when installed. Most thermostats are available for under $40 and it is good insurance and good maintenance to replace the thermostat at the same time as you replace the radiator.

6. How do I diagnose a blocked radiator?
The most common symptom is that the car drives okay without overheating until the motor creates higher thermal load and then the temperature gauge climbs. This means that when travelling at higher speeds, towing or climbing hills, when the air conditioning is turned on or when the outside temperature is high, your temperature gauge is likely to rise. If your car runs fine in winter but overheats in summer, you can be fairly sure you have a blocked radiator.

7. What are the different types of radiators?

Alloy/Plastic - most commonly used products for radiators today are an aluminium alloy core and plastic tanks with o-ring seals. These are lighter than any other type and preferred by OE manufacturers.

Copper/Plastic the first radiators to use plastic tanks had copper cores. Copper is a very good conductor of heat but slightly heavier than aluminium. Still used by some manufacturers but commonly found in cars made in the 80's and 90's.

Copper/Brass - copper fins, brass tubes with brass tanks. Used for the first 80 years of radiator manufacture but are heavier than the other options. Still used in many trucks, industrial and mining applications because of their high strength.

Alloy - aluminium alloy tubes, fins and tanks welded on to the core. Although few OE manufacturers use this type some vehicles can have the option of complete alloy radiators. All V8 supercars use all alloy radiators. Complete alloy radiators are lightweight and strong with good heat dispersion properties.

8. What do I use to flush the cooling system?
If your cooling system is particularly dirty we recommend using a specific radiator flush. A 500ml container is enough for most vehicles. Drain the cooling system completely. Add flush and fill with fresh water before removal of old radiator, run engine with heater on for 10 minutes and then flush completely again with fresh water.

9. Can you explain the 5-year warranty?
We offer the best warranty in the industry so that you don’t have to worry. How does it work? The usual statutory warranty of 2 years is applied and at the time of purchase you have a choice to extend the warranty to up to 3 years making it a full 5 year warranty on your new radiator.

10. What brands of radiators do you supply?
We proudly supply from all of the major manufacturers that are available in Australia. We have buying deals with all the importers and manufacturers giving you the best products, the best range and the best prices. These include, Denso, Adrad, Jayrad, Natra, Visteon, Behr, Nissens, Motorkool and Koyo.

11. What coolant should I use when replacing the radiator?
Coolants are very important. You can buy through us a ethylene glycol based antifreeze/antiboil. We recommend that whatever coolant you use you end up with 50% ethylene glycol and 50% water.

12. What makes of vehicles do you cover?
All common makes are covered. If it has been sold in Australia and if a radiator is available it will be listed. This is the best radiator list in Australia covering the makes and models supplied by all manufacturers.

13. How long do deliveries take?
Orders during the morning are processed and dispatched in the afternoon. Orders during the afternoon are processed and dispatched the next morning. Capital cities usually get the radiator in 1-3 days, major country areas 2-5 days and remote areas 5-10 days.