2012 - 2020 Chevrolet Sonic Ecotec 1.4L Turbo (RPO LUV) Leaking Radiator Replacement

In this DIY repair video we go thru the onerous task of replacing the coolant radiator in the Chevrolet Sonic with the Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine option (RPO LUV). We cover this in EPIC detail, using the GM factory service manual information as our guide, but deviating to account for a more DIY friendly approach.

The vehicle illustrated is a 2015 Chevrolet Sonic LT sedan and this video will be an exact match for replacing the radiator on any first generation 2012 thru 2016 Sonic with th 1.4L turbo engine. This video will provide very similar guidance for radiator replacement on the 2017 thru 2020 second generation Sonics with the same engine, but there will be some disassembly /reassembly differences due to the different design of front bumper fascia.

The following service procedures can be learned by viewing this video:
- Radiator replacement
- Intercooler removal
- Front wheelhouse liner removal
- Front bumper fascia removal

The eBay and Amazon search links below are paid links, for which I may be compensated and earn a commission, if you choose to buy the parts and tools shown in this video thru them:

Lisle 35260 plastic fastener removal tool: https://ebay.us/BzicLM or https://amzn.to/3Rd0zaB

Lisle 17460 curved hose clamp pliers: https://ebay.us/5x8OqG or https://amzn.to/3uhGgzI

Gearwrench 82115 cable hose clamp pliers: https://ebay.us/bGqnzy or https://amzn.to/47wFUUc

GM 95316049 / ACDelco 21-829 (supersedes GM 95160949) radiator assembly: https://ebay.us/9QWpzq or https://amzn.to/47zmzBL

GM 24205103 transmission cooling line fitting clip: https://ebay.us/8TynqH or https://amzn.to/3MPafp5

ACDelco Dexcool coolant: https://ebay.us/ED8VhJ or https://amzn.to/40EperC

ACDelco Dexron VI ATF: https://ebay.us/myrngW or https://amzn.to/47685tn

Flotool 05034MI large funnel: https://ebay.us/3sD6jf or https://amzn.to/47gkpHq

GM service manual: https://ebay.us/cbFOVB

And if I've saved you some $$ here, consider some coins for the coffee tip-jar! https://ko-fi.com/drshock

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Chapters:
0:00 - Problem overview
0:59 - Service manual radiator removal steps
4:25 - Turbocharger air duct removal
5:06 - Coolant reservoir relocation
5:39 - Lower fascia opening cover removal
8:03 - RH front wheelhouse liner removal
13:05 - Disconnecting the fan shroud & transmission cooling lines
23:26 - Draining the radiator of coolant
24:32 - Disconnect inlet and outlet coolant hoses
29:30 - Removing the front bumper fascia cover
36:07 - Removing the upper baffle & disconnecting the lower baffle
39:57 - Detaching the AC condenser and intercooler from the radiator
42:29 - Disconnecting the radiator upper mounting brackets
43:34 - Removing the upper center support brace & hood latch
47:48 - Removing the front fascia lower impact bar & lower baffle
55:12 - Removing the radiator from the vehicle
59:49 - Installation of new radiator
1:03:30 - Re-installation, reconnections, torque values for front end
1:05:09 - Reconnections, torque values for fan area
1:07:44 - Refilling the radiator with coolant
1:09:14 - Final reconnections, torque values, and ATF top off

#drshock #chevysonic #chevroletsonic

Disclaimer: DrShock, the alias for the human content creator for this YouTube channel, is not responsible for any damages, injuries, losses, or liabilities associated with any repairs, upgrades, or maintenance performed on yours, or any other, vehicle whatsoever. No warranty, express or implied, is made as to the accuracy or completeness of any information provided within this channel. Viewing and using the “as-is" information of this channel is totally at your own risk. Always wear personal protection equipment and follow appropriate vehicle manufacturer service manual guidelines with original manufacturer parts only when performing any repairs, upgrades, or maintenance upon any vehicle.