My 2006 Charger RT was losing coolant requiring frequent refills, but no recorded overheat. At service I ask dealer to check it.

The diagnosis came back that it required a new water pump and overflow reservoir, along with some fittings, upper and lower hoses, and system flush ($900).

A few miles after the service the car stopped on the road, and had to be towed back to the dealer. There was no sign of overheat by the gauges and warning.

Dealer service since has told me now that it needs new radiator (hairline crack in plastic), a new thermostat, along with two new fans (estimate another $900).

Questions;

1. Can anyone confirm that in order to change the water pump the radiator needs to be removed?
2. Can anyone advise if removal of the radiator could cause a crack?
3. Can anyone advise if flushing the system would or should be done under pressure, which would highlight such a crack in the radiator tank?
4. Can anyone advise on the level of damage to the engine that running an engine to overheat until it stops would cause?
5. Can anyone advise on the approach to take with the dealer on this, since I brought the car in for a problem that was misdiagnosed, not solved, cost money, and more money, and may have damaged the engine.


Regards,