I had the same problem with my original radiator after 11 years / 62K Miles. The upper flange split in half and the hose was left disconnected. I changed the radiator myself and did some cleanup while in there, whole thing cost me $385 I think for a new BEHR OEM Radiator with metal insert on both flanges. I filled with Zerex GO5 since it is readily available and approved for use in MB engines.

Anything less than 10 years or 100K miles on these radiators sounds excessive and I'd probably start checking other components in the cooling system to make sure it's not being over pressurized.

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Afshin

Current:
02 C32 AMG

Previous:
92 500E
84 190E 2.3 5 Spd