I need a new radiator and saw ones for the S on eBay for around $65. Wanting to get the opinions of the class on these radiators before I get one.

 

How much is your time worth?
How much does it cost to fix collateral damage?

$140 gets a name brand radiator shipped to your door.

There’s not a chance in hell given how big of a pain the *** it is that I would stick an eBay $65 China special in my S.

 

Compare the names (if given) to the ones on rockauto.com
They are typically the same ones the local bigbox suto parts stores sell....
My one concern might be getting the right part...many non MINI specialist think an S is a trim level...not a different motor, and think the same parts fit everything....
For me...I'd spent the extra $20-30 and get one from rockauto, and have a known item, with a known seller I can go back too if I have issues.....

 

I will. I usually do buy MINI genuine, but not spending that kind of money this time around. I will check out rockauto.

 

The Behr radiator for a MCS is $160 from FCP Euro which gives lifetime warranty. Free shipping, too. Behr is an OEM manufacturer for many parts.

 

I agree, some sites will list the incorrect part for your model so make sure you're comparing part numbers with the one you're looking at. For MCS 2002-2008 Part # 17-11-7-570-489. If you need help with the install be sure to check out this DIY here.

 

What's the opinion of the the all aluminum radiators found around $140?

 

Spend the $ and get Mishimoto.

 

I can't even say buy a Mishimoto given there's a few posts around where people have said they've failed. Sure they have a life time warranty, but it all boils down to what is your time worth.

 

Depends on the brand name. I've had a full aluminum radiator crack on me before with only 20k miles on it.

 

Is there a difference between manual transmission and automatic? eBay seems to think so...

Opinions of CSF? Or is the upgrade even worth it in a stock setup? I am interested in upgrading if what they said is true about the aluminum radiators keeping the engine much cooler, but if that's just hogwash then I save my money and just get a stocker. It does seem to get awfully hot in these tight engine bays...

 

Unless you're tracking your car, a regular radiator from a respected manufacturer will be fine. My 2nd Mishimoto has held up well. The first one developed a crack in the weld at the upper neck but they promptly replaced it.

 

CSF is a great brand. Not just saying that because we sell them, but because a lot of my track friends are sponsored by them and run their product on their crazy builds so I've seen how well they can cool cars. I, personally, run KOYO and have had zero issues. It keeps my car extremely cool on and off the track. Before I started racing, when my OEM radiator cracked, I decided to upgrade to a full aluminum radiator as I figured why not upgrade while I have to replace it.