Best Car Engine Radiators of 2025

Joseph Prokop Avatar
Joseph Prokop
Last Updated: 11 Feb 2025

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Car engine radiators are an essential component of any vehicle's cooling system. They are responsible for removing heat from the engine and dissipating it through the surrounding air. A well-functioning radiator is crucial to prevent overheating and engine damage, and it also helps to stabilise engine temperature, improving fuel efficiency and engine performance. There are various types of car radiators available, ranging from copper-brass to aluminium designs, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right radiator for your vehicle can be an important decision to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Frankberg Radiator for M.i.n.i R50 R53 Cover #TOP 1
Frankberg Radiator for M.i.n.i R50 R53
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Frankberg Engine Radiator for Transporter IV Cover #TOP 2
Frankberg Engine Radiator for Transporter IV
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HouYeen Coolant Expansion Header Tank for Ford Cover #TOP 3
HouYeen Coolant Expansion Header Tank for Ford
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Car Engine Radiators

#TOP 1

Frankberg Radiator for M.i.n.i R50 R53

APMRAD202302003
Frankberg Radiator for M.i.n.i R50 R53 Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Compatible with M.i.n.i R50 R53 Cooper One 1.6L 2001-2006 M.i.n.i Cabriolet R52 Cooper One 1.6L 2004-2007 Petrol Replace# 17117570821

The Frankberg M.i.n.i Radiator is designed to fit M.i.n.i R50 R53 Cooper One models from 2001 to 2006 and Cabriolet R52 models from 2004 to 2007. This radiator is ideal for vehicles equipped with air conditioning, ensuring efficient cooling for your engine. With a depth of approximately 26 mm, width of 398 mm, and length of 578 mm, it offers a precise fit. The brazed cooling fins and straight water pipe design enhance the radiator’s performance, improving your vehicle's overall reliability and longevity.

What We Like
Compatible with specific M.i.n.i models
Efficient cooling for engine
Designed for air-conditioned vehicles
Durable brazed cooling fins
Straight water pipe design
#TOP 2

Frankberg Engine Radiator for Transporter IV

UK012021060301
Frankberg Engine Radiator for Transporter IV Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Manual Transmission Compatible with 70B 70C 70J 70K 7DB 7DC 7DJ 7DK 1.8L-2.8L 1991-2003 Transporter IV 70A 70H 7DA 7DH Replace# 701121253F

The Frankberg Engine Radiator is specifically designed for various models of the Transporter IV Bus and Platform/Chassis manufactured between 1991 and 2003. This product is compatible with manual transmission vehicles, ensuring a perfect fit for your car. With reference numbers including 701121253D and 701121253F, you can easily identify the correct replacement. Its dimensions, such as net length and width, are tailored to provide optimal cooling performance, making it a reliable choice for maintaining your vehicle's engine efficiency.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple Transporter IV models
Designed for manual transmission vehicles
Easy identification with reference numbers
Optimised dimensions for engine cooling
#TOP 3

HouYeen Coolant Expansion Header Tank for Ford

8V618K218AE
HouYeen Coolant Expansion Header Tank for Ford Cover
HouYeen Radiator Coolant Expansion Header Tank with Cap for Kuga Transit Connect Mk2 Focus Mk3 Cmax

The HouYeen Coolant Header Tank is designed specifically for various Ford models, including the C-Max, Focus, and Kuga. With reference OE numbers provided, it ensures compatibility, allowing you to easily verify that it fits your vehicle. This product is suitable for multiple models from 2010 to 2022, making it a versatile choice for Ford owners. Included with the tank is a cap, which helps maintain optimal coolant levels, contributing to your engine's performance and longevity.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple Ford models
Includes cap for convenience
OE numbers for easy verification
Supports engine performance
#TOP 4

Frankberg Engine Radiator for BMW Models

APMRAD2204656
Frankberg Engine Radiator for BMW Models Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Automatic Transmission Compatible with 3 Series E90 E91 E92 E93 335 3.0L 2006-2013 1 Series E82 E88 135 3.0L 2007-2013 Petrol Replace# 17117547059

The Frankberg Engine Radiator is designed for a range of BMW models, specifically the 3 Series E90, E91, E92, E93, and 1 Series E82, E88. This product is compatible with both automatic transmission vehicles and those with air conditioning, ensuring versatility in your car's cooling system. With precise dimensions, it fits effortlessly into your vehicle, enhancing cooling efficiency. Its petrol fuel compatibility is essential for optimal performance, helping you maintain your car's engine temperature effectively.

What We Like
Compatible with various BMW models
Designed for automatic transmission
Efficient engine cooling
Easy installation
Petrol fuel compatibility
#TOP 5

Frankberg Engine Radiator for BMW Models

APMRAD2205279
Frankberg Engine Radiator for BMW Models Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Automatic Transmission Compatible with 1 Series E81 E87 E88 E82 3.0L 2005-2013 3 Series E90 E91 E92 E93 2.0L-4.0L 2004-2018 Replace# 17117562079

The Frankberg Engine Radiator is compatible with a range of BMW models, including the 1 Series and 3 Series from 2004 to 2018. It supports automatic transmissions, ensuring smooth performance in your vehicle. With precise dimensions of approximately 448mm in width and 600mm in length, it fits neatly in designated spaces. The brazed cooling fins design enhances cooling efficiency, helping to maintain optimal engine temperatures. This product is suited for petrol engines, providing peace of mind for users looking to replace their radiators with reliable components.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple BMW models
Designed for automatic transmissions
Efficient cooling performance
Easy fit with specific dimensions
#TOP 6

Frankberg Engine Radiator for Mii and Citigo

APMRAD202308989
Frankberg Engine Radiator for Mii and Citigo Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Manual Transmission Compatible with Mii KE1 KF1 1.0L Electric 2011-Today Citigo NF1 1.0L 2011-2019 E-Citigo NE1 Electric 2019-2021 Replace# 1S0121253AM

The Frankberg Engine Radiator is designed for various models including the Mii KE1 KF1 and Citigo NF1, ensuring compatibility with both manual transmission and electric versions from 2011 to 2021. This product features specific reference numbers for easy identification, making it straightforward for you to find the right fit for your vehicle. With precise dimensions, it guarantees a perfect installation, which enhances the cooling efficiency of your engine. Additionally, it lacks engine and transmission oil coolers, simplifying the setup and maintenance process for your vehicle.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple vehicle models
Easy identification with reference numbers
Perfect fit ensures efficient cooling
Simplifies installation and maintenance
#TOP 7

Frankberg Engine Radiator for Qashqai +2 Models

APMRAD202309584
Frankberg Engine Radiator for Qashqai +2 Models Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Manual Transmission Compatible with Qashqai +2 I J10 JJ10E NJ10 1.6L 2.0L 2007-2013 Qashqai +2 I Van J10 JJ10E 1.6L 2.0L 2013-2014 Replace# 21410JD01B

The Frankberg Qashqai +2 Radiator is designed for specific Qashqai +2 I models from 2007 to 2014, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. With reference numbers included, you can easily verify compatibility, making your purchase hassle-free. The radiator features a robust aluminium cooling fin material, which enhances durability and efficiency in cooling your engine. Additionally, the manual transmission compatibility ensures that you receive a product tailored to your vehicle's needs, providing you with peace of mind and reliable performance.

What We Like
Compatible with specific Qashqai +2 models
Durable aluminium construction
Easy compatibility verification
Designed for manual transmissions
#TOP 8

Frankberg Radiator for BMW E36 E34

APMRAD202308588
Frankberg Radiator for BMW E36 E34 Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Manual Transmission Compatible with 3 Series E36 1.6L-2.8L 1990-1998 5 Series E34 5 Series Touring E34 1.8L 2.5L 1991-1997 Replace# 17111712978

The Frankberg BMW Radiator is designed for various BMW models, ensuring compatibility with the 3 Series E30 and E36, as well as the 5 Series E34. This product supports manual transmission vehicles, making it easier for you to find the right fit. With precise dimensions, it guarantees a proper installation in your car, enhancing efficiency. The radiator features a robust design with brazed cooling fins, improving cooling performance and helping to maintain optimal engine temperature.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple BMW models
Designed for manual transmission
Robust cooling performance
Easy installation
#TOP 9

Frankberg Engine Radiator for Cinquecento & Seicento

2021033011011
Frankberg Engine Radiator for Cinquecento & Seicento Cover
Frankberg Engine Radiator Car Radiator Manual Transmission Compatible with Cinquecento 170 0.9L 1.1L 1991-1999 Seicento/600 187 0.9L 1.1L 1997-2010 Petrol/Electric Replace# 46414207

The Frankberg Engine Radiator is designed for compatibility with various models, including the Cinquecento and Seicento series. It fits petrol and electric versions from 1991 to 2010, ensuring you have the right part for your vehicle. With its manual transmission specification, you can be confident that it will seamlessly integrate with your car's system. The front axle installation position allows for straightforward setup, saving you time and effort in the replacement process.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple models
Designed for manual transmission
Easy front axle installation
Suitable for petrol and electric
#TOP 10

Mishimoto Performance Aluminium Radiator for BMW E36 M3

MMRAD-E36-92
Mishimoto Performance Aluminium Radiator for BMW E36 M3 Cover
Mishimoto MMRAD-E36-92 Performance Aluminium Radiator

The Mishimoto E36 Radiator is designed specifically for BMW E36 M3 models, ensuring a perfect fit. With overall dimensions of 27.7 inches by 17.8 inches by 3.5 inches, it provides ample cooling capacity for your vehicle. The inlet and outlet sizes of 1.5 inches facilitate efficient coolant flow, which helps maintain optimal engine temperatures. Additionally, the included magnetic drain plug allows for easy maintenance and reduces the risk of debris clogging the system, making your driving experience smoother and more reliable.

What We Like
Custom fit for BMW E36 M3
Efficient coolant flow
Easy maintenance with magnetic drain plug
Robust aluminium construction
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a radiator in an engine?

A radiator helps to eliminate excess heat from the engine. It is part of the engine's cooling system, which also includes a liquid coolant, hoses to circulate the coolant, a fan, and a thermostat that monitors the coolant temperature.

2. How do car radiators work?

The radiator works by passing your coolant through thin metal fins, which allow the heat to flow to the air outside your car much more easily. Sometimes, there is a fan that blows air across the radiator in order to carry the hot air out of your car.

3. What are the two types of radiators used in the engine cooling system?

Notwithstanding the materials used, radiators are basically of two types: cross-flow radiators and down-flow radiators, depending on where the tank is located.

4. How much does it cost to put a radiator in a car?

The average cost for radiator replacement is between $995 and $1,132. Labor costs are estimated between $230 and $290 while parts are priced between $766 and $842. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

5. Which radiator will provide better cooling to an engine?

The trick to better cooling is wider tubes and shorter fin. This increases the “tube to fin” contact area, which determines the radiator efficiency. A typical 4 row copper radiator uses 7/16" tubes while the aluminum radiators use two rows 1" tubes.

Editor's Notes

During our car engine radiator research, we found 306 car engine radiator products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,177 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car engine radiators list. We found that most customers choose car engine radiators with an average price of £74.00.

The car engine radiators are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car engine radiators, including Frankberg, HouYeen, Mishimoto. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 528 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Joseph Prokop Avatar

Joseph is a seasoned writer who's also passionate about automotive. His passion for automotive care and maintenance fuels his drive for more knowledge in the field. He currently resides in Middlesbrough, where he finds time to write informative contents on automotive. His automotive related articles are quite popular in journals around the world. Joseph continues to use his wealth of experience in the industry to create helpful guides on automotive.