I have a 2006 Gr Caravan that is leaking coolant from 2 places. The first mechanic I took it to said I needed to replace the radiator, both hoses and the thermostat. I took it for a second opinion and that mechanic said the water pump needed to be replaced not the radiator. How do I know who to believe?

 

Take it to a 3rd mechanic and he should agree with one of the 1st two mechanics and go from there..

 

That's alot of check out time to pay to keep taking it to new places. Chances are pretty good that they are both right. The hoses and thermostat probably aren't leaking, some mechanics like to replace them when they have them apart already. The water pumps are huge issues on the minivans, I have 130K on my '03 and I think I'm on my 3rd one. I also replace my fair share of radiators on them, there is a cooler between the radiator and the condenser. It breaks away from the mounting brackets and bangs against the radiator until it makes a hole. I guess it's never a sure bet who's doing their job and who's trying to screw you over. Good luck.

 

for even less money, time and aggravation, you can buy (or maybe rent) a coolant pressure tester. then you can pressurize your cooling system and you can find the leak. get yourself a mirror and flash light to see in confined areas.