How to Replace Radiator 2007-2013 Acura MDX/ZDX

In todays video, I'll be demonstrating how to replace a radiator on my 2008 Acura MDX. This process will be similar on the ZDX as well as the Honda Pilot and Ridgeline.
The main reason these radiators need to be replaced is because of leaks due to cracked plastic and rust. On this specific radiator, it has a design flaw where the transmission cooling line that goes through the radiator can rust, causing coolant and ATF to mix, which can instantly destroy a transmission without warning. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to replace this OEM radiator with the redesigned DENSO radiator which fixed this problem. I personally recommend replacing the radiator during your second timing belt service at 210,000 miles or sooner if you notice a concerning amount of rust around the transmission cooling line connection point.

Parts used in this video:
DENSO 2213237 Radiator - https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo....
Coolant Temperature Sensor O-Ring - 91307-RTA-005
2x Passenger Fan Shroud Bolts - 90042-PAA-A01
2x ATF Pipe C Bolts - 90001-P8F-000
1/4" ID Clear Vinyl Tubing - https://www.menards.com/main/plumbing...
2x Gallons Honda Type-II Coolant - https://amzn.to/3CnH0Ia
1x Quart Honda DW-1 ATF - https://amzn.to/42C3ZK5

0:00 Intro/Diagnosis
2:56 Purchasing Parts
4:54 Turn climate control temperature and fan settings to MAX
5:07 Remove front bulkhead cover
5:32 Remove Air filter cover
6:03 Remove battery
6:41 Remove air filter housing
7:08 Remove battery base plate
8:33 Remove front grille
9:05 Disconnect coolant reservoir tube & cooling fan connectors from shroud
9:56 Remove lower engine cover and splash shield
10:44 Drain Coolant from radiator and engine block
12:05 Disconnect upper radiator hose
12:23 Disconnect transmission fluid lines
13:54 Remove transmission pipe
14:53 Disconnect lower radiator hose
15:50 Disconnect coolant temperature sensor connector
15:57 Remove lower fan shroud bolts
16:49 Remove hood latch assembly
17:16 Remove bulkhead bracket
17:32 Remove radiator and AC condenser brackets
17:50 Remove upper fan shroud bolts
18:05 Remove Radiator
19:10 OPTIONAL - inspect front engine mount and replace if necessary

19:46 Swap coolant temperature sensor over to new radiator and replace O-ring - torque 13ft.lbs
20:38 Loosely install lower fan shroud and ATF pipe bolts on new radiator
21:19 Install new Radiator
21:34 Attach fan shrouds to radiator
21:56 Install radiator and AC condenser brackets
22:04 Install bulkhead bracket
22:13 Reconnect coolant reservoir tube & cooling fan connectors
22:44 Install hood latch assembly - torque to 7.2 ft.lbs
23:29 Connect upper radiator hose
23:51 Install ATF pipe, connect ATF lines, connect coolant temp sensor connector, & lower radiator hose
25:58 Install battery base plate
27:04 Install air filter housing and battery
27:43 Install splash shield, lower engine cover, & front grille
28:27 Fill radiator and coolant reservoir with coolant, top off ATF to max fill line on dip stick
29:22 Turn climate control temperature and fan settings to MAX, then start car for 30 seconds
29:41 Top off coolant and bleed remaining air out of cooling system
30:11 Install bulkhead cover and keep an eye on coolant and ATF levels over next couple drives
30:30 Conclusion