Over time, the radiator in a Volvo S40 can become damaged or worn out to the point that it needs to be removed from the engine. Corrosion or pressure can build up in the tank, preventing it from cooling the engine properly. When this occurs, you need to remove the radiator to have it repaired. You can remove the Volvo S40 radiator yourself, saving you the time and money of taking it to a radiator shop to be repaired.
Detach the negative battery cable of the Volvo S40 from the battery post before attempting to remove the radiator. Locate the drain valve on the bottom of the radiator tank and place a drain pan underneath the valve.
Remove the radiator cap from the top of the radiator. Take the cap off the coolant overflow reservoir on the passenger's side of the engine compartment and open the drain valve at the bottom of the radiator tank with a pair of pliers to let the radiator fluid drain out.
Unfasten the screw clamps around the upper and lower radiator hoses with a screwdriver. Pry the hoses off the radiator flanges with the screwdriver.
Remove the cooling fan mounting screws from the vehicle's frame with a screwdriver, leaving the cooling fan attached to the radiator. Locate the electrical wiring connector plug to the cooling fan and unplug it.
Locate the mounting bolts for the radiator on the vehicle's frame and detach the bolts with a socket wrench. Lift the radiator out of the Volvo S40 engine compartment and set it aside.
