2003–2009 Kia Sorento
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $465 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $650
Quick answer: Replace Radiator DIY on a 2003–2009 Kia Sorento is rated Advanced and takes about 2-3 hours. You'll need 5 tools for this job, and parts cost about $185. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement Radiator | 25310-3E000 | $150.00 | |
| Radiator Cap | 25320-3E000 | $15.00 | |
| Coolant | — | $20.00 | |
| Hose clamp set | — | — |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
With the engine cold, set the parking brake and place a drain pan under the radiator petcock or lower hose. Drain into a sealed container for recycling — never pour coolant on the ground. Wear gloves and eye protection.
Remove the upper radiator support cover/shroud pieces as needed. Disconnect upper and lower radiator hoses (and transmission cooler lines if equipped — plug them immediately). Unplug electric fan connectors and remove the fan/shroud assembly if it blocks radiator removal.
I remove the Sorento shrouds and fans — and I plug the cooler lines the second they come off. I have learned a thumb is not a plug: ATF on the driveway and air in the cooler follow five seconds of laziness.
Remove the radiator mounting bolts or upper brackets. Carefully lift the radiator straight up, watching for A/C condenser clips, foam seals, and cooler lines. Do not bend condenser fins if the condenser stays in the vehicle.
Compare inlet/outlet sizes, mount points, and cooler fittings. Transfer the drain petcock, insulator bushings, brackets, and any foam seals to the new radiator. Replace brittle hose clamps and inspect hoses for soft spots.
Lower the new radiator into the lower mounts, align upper brackets, and tighten fasteners. Reattach hoses with new clamps if needed. Reconnect transmission cooler lines with new washers/seals where specified. Refit the fan/shroud and electrical connectors.
Fill with the correct coolant and mixture. Bleed via the bleeder screw, or run the engine with the heater on high until the thermostat opens and the upper hose gets hot. Shut down, recheck the level cold, and inspect for leaks.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
2003–2009
2003–2009
2011–2015
2011–2015
2011–2015
2016–2020
