| Blown Tank-to-Header Seam | An indication that the radiator has been subjected to extreme pressures resulting from exhaust leaking into the cooling system. |
| Cracked Plastic Tanks | High stress in the radiator can cause premature plastic-tank failure. |
| Electrolysis - (External) | Stray electrical current can cause an electrochemical reaction that will produce voids in radiator tubes. |
| Electrolysis - (Internal) | Stray electrical current can cause excessive corrosion of metal components. |
| Fan Damage | A minor collision or a failed water pump can result in radiator damage. |
| Fin Bond Failure | A loss of solder bond between fins and tubes. Fins are loose in core causing loss of heat transfer and reducing radiator strength. |
| Fin Deterioration | A chemical deterioration of the radiator fins most often caused by road salt or seawater. |
| Internal Deposits | Rust and leak inhibitors can form solids that collect in the radiator cooling system and restrict flow. |
| Leaky Inlet/Outlet Fitting | Leaks in the radiator inlet/outlet area can be caused by fatigue or solder-joint corrosion. |
| Leaky Oil Cooler | - Coolant shows traces of oil. Transmission or engine damage can result from the mixing of coolant with transmission fluid or engine |
| Leaky Tank-to-Header Seam | Failure of the solder joint results in coolant loss. |
| Loose Side Piece | Can lead to flexing of the core and radiator-tube failure. |
| Over Pressurization | Excessive pressure in the radiator caused by defective pressure cap or engine-exhaust leak can destroy the radiator. |
| Soldier Bloom | Solder corrosion caused by degradation of rust and leak inhibitors in antifreeze. Tube-to-header joints are weakened, and corrosion can restrict coolant flow. |
| Steam Erosion | Steam can break down the plastic tank which will produce thinning and ultimately holes in the plastic tank. Frequently, white deposits |
| Tube-to-Header Leaks | Failure of the radiator solder joint on this radiator's header and tubes, results in coolant loss. |