Volvo Repair: Volvo 850 coolant leak, volvo 850 coolant, coolant leak

Question
Hi Roger,

I have a coolant leak in my Volvo and brought it to the mechanic who found out that it is the radiator that is leaking. He told me that a new radiator would be around 600$ including installation cost. Since this is a lot of money for me he put in a powder that could temporarily seal of the leak. However, if this doesn´t work I will have to replace the radiator. My question to you: is 600$ a fair price for that? Is there any way I could replace the radiator myself (I know very little about cars but could get someone who knows more to help).

I would REALLY appreciate your help on this!

Regards,

Andreas

Answer
Andreas, DO NOT let him put that POWDER in the system.  You are asking for trouble.  That Radiator is about $400.  If you car is a turbo then its a pain to do it.  Thats where the $200 labor comes from.  They arent fun to do, turbo or non-turbo but if your friend knows about cars and willing to teach you then it may be a fun experience for you to learn how.  Roger