What precautions should be taken when disconnecting the battery and replacing the radiator and coolant reservoir on Volkswagen Golf?

If the battery is disconnected, several systems must be re-learned before they will work properly. For the replacement of the radiator shutter assembly (if equipped), follow the appropriate procedures. Begin by raising the front of the vehicle and securely supporting it on jackstands, then disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Remove the under-vehicle splash shield and drain the cooling system, followed by removing the engine cover and cooling fan shroud. Disconnect the hoses from the radiator, being prepared for some coolant to spill, and then remove the front bumper cover. Next, remove the air guide fasteners and the air guides from each side of the condenser, followed by the condenser to radiator bolts. Remove the radiator mount bolts and push the radiator towards the rear until the upper mounts can be removed from the sides, then lift the radiator up and out of the lower mounts. Installation is the reverse of removal, and after refilling and bleeding the system, run the engine and check carefully for leaks. For specific engine types, remove the clips securing the hose connectors, disconnect the coolant temperature sensor electrical connector, and lift the clips securing the hose connectors to the charge air system circuit cooler. Remove the radiator mounting bolts, slide the radiator towards the engine until the upper mounts are free, and lift it out. Prior to installation, replace any damaged components. For the expansion tank, drain the cooling system until empty, detach the upper coolant hoses, disconnect the coolant level sensor connector, and remove the mounting screws to lift the expansion tank and disconnect the lower hose. Ensure the reservoir is clean before installation, which is the reverse of removal.

Genuine Volkswagen Golf Radiator

Cooling Radiator

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19 Radiators found

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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 321-121-253-AL
$104.89 MSRP: $146.90
You Save: $42.01 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1985-1992 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL, GT, GTI, GTI 8-Valve | 4 Cyl 1.8 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1HM-121-253-C
$119.15 MSRP: $166.88
You Save: $47.73 (29%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Replaces: 1H0-121-253-AK
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1996-1998 Volkswagen Golf | GTI, K2, TDI | 4 Cyl 1.9 L DIESEL, 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1J0-121-212-A
$143.99 MSRP: $201.67
You Save: $57.68 (29%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Auxiliary Radiator
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1999-2002 Volkswagen Golf | GTI, GTI GLX, GTI VR6 | 6 Cyl 2.8 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 191-121-253
$156.60 MSRP: $219.33
You Save: $62.73 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Replaces: 191-121-251-F, 191-121-253-B
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1987-1992 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL, GTI 16-Valve | 4 Cyl 1.6 L DIESEL, 4 Cyl 1.8 L GAS, 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 191-121-251-C
$172.79 MSRP: $242.00
You Save: $69.21 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1985-1992 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL, GT, GTI, GTI 16-Valve, GTI 8-Valve | 4 Cyl 1.8 L GAS, 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 5Q0-121-251-HS
$215.15 MSRP: $301.34
You Save: $86.19 (29%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Auxiliary Radiator, Intercooler
- Replaces: 5Q0-121-251-GF, 5Q0-121-251-EJ, 5Q0-121-251-GB
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2019-2021, 2015 Volkswagen Golf | S, SE, TDI S, TDI SE, TDI SEL, TSi | 4 Cyl 1.4 L GAS, 4 Cyl 2.0 L DIESEL
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1K0-121-251-DF
$217.78 MSRP: $305.01
You Save: $87.23 (29%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Replaces: 1K0-121-251-BR, 1K0-121-251-CD
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2010-2014 Volkswagen Golf | Base | 5 Cyl 2.5 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 5Q0-121-251-GQ
$219.09 MSRP: $306.85
You Save: $87.76 (29%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2019-2021, 2015 Volkswagen Golf | S, SE, TDI S, TDI SE, TDI SEL, TSi | 4 Cyl 1.4 L GAS, 4 Cyl 2.0 L DIESEL
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 321-121-253-B
$215.02 MSRP: $301.15
You Save: $86.13 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1985-1990 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL, GT, GTI, GTI 16-Valve, GTI 8-Valve | 4 Cyl 1.8 L GAS, 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1K0-121-251-AB
$255.55 MSRP: $349.11
You Save: $93.56 (27%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Replaces: 1K0-121-251-BK, 1K0-121-251-N, 1K0-121-251-EH, 1K0-121-251-DM
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2010-2014 Volkswagen Golf | TDI | 4 Cyl 2.0 L DIESEL
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 823-121-251-D
$227.09 MSRP: $318.05
You Save: $90.96 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1985-1990 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL, GT, GTI, GTI 16-Valve, GTI 8-Valve | 4 Cyl 1.8 L GAS, 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 5Q0-121-251-HQ
$259.59 MSRP: $354.62
You Save: $95.03 (27%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
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Product Specifications
- Other Name: Auxiliary Radiator, Intercooler
- Replaces: 5Q0-121-251-FB, 5Q0-121-251-HP, 5Q0-121-251-GC, 5Q0-121-251-GG
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2015 Volkswagen Golf | TDI S, TDI SE, TDI SEL | 4 Cyl 2.0 L DIESEL
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 5QM-121-251-Q
$282.45 MSRP: $385.86
You Save: $103.41 (27%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 2019-2021 Volkswagen Golf | S, SE, TSi | 4 Cyl 1.4 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1HM-121-253
$104.40 MSRP: $146.22
You Save: $41.82 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1993-1999 Volkswagen Golf | Celebration Edition, City, GL, GTI, Jazz, K2, Limited Edition, Sport, Trek, Wolfsburg Edition | 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 191-121-253-F
$164.22 MSRP: $230.00
You Save: $65.78 (29%)
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Replaces: 191-121-253-G, 191-121-253-A
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1985-1988 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL | 4 Cyl 1.6 L DIESEL
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1HM-121-253-H
$178.50 MSRP: $250.00
You Save: $71.50 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1995-1998 Volkswagen Golf | GTI VR6 | 6 Cyl 2.8 L GAS
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 193-121-251
$187.57 MSRP: $262.70
You Save: $75.13 (29%)
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Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1991-1992 Volkswagen Golf | Base, GL | 4 Cyl 1.6 L DIESEL
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Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1HM-121-253-R
$207.77 MSRP: $291.00
You Save: $83.23 (29%)
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Replaces: 1HM-121-253-Q, 1HM-121-253-J
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1993-1999 Volkswagen Golf | Celebration Edition, City, GL, GTI, Jazz, K2, Limited Edition, Sport, Trek, Wolfsburg Edition | 4 Cyl 1.9 L DIESEL, 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS
View related parts
Volkswagen Golf Radiator Part Number: 1HM-121-253-K
$247.70 MSRP: $338.38
You Save: $90.68 (27%)
Ships in 1-2 Business Days
ADD TO CART
Product Specifications
- Warranty: This genuine part is guaranteed by Volkswagen's factory warranty.
Fits the following Vehicles:
- 1994 Volkswagen Golf | GTI | 4 Cyl 2.0 L GAS

Volkswagen Golf Radiator

The Volkswagen Golf Radiator plays a very important role in ensuring that the engine is not overheated by extracting heat from the circulating coolant and venting it into the air flowing through the grille. It is positioned at the front in the free flow of wind, and within the rectangular frame there are narrow tubes carrying the hot fluid, and a dense forest of fins captures the heat and transfers it to the air passing by, which is facilitated primarily by convection, although the section is referred to as the radiation section. Earlier models of the first generation hatchback applied heavier cores of copper or brass, but the majority of later Volkswagen models applied aluminum cores and plastic or aluminum tank sides, which reduced weight but did not impact heat transfer and became popular throughout the entire Volkswagen family. Every unit has an inlet tank, an outlet tank, and a core that maximizes surface area so that the coolant gives up its heat before it goes back to the engine, and a clean Radiator core is even more efficient. Efficiency is increased when the fins are able to conduct heat faster, but leaks are the highly widespread failure since the pressurized coolant could leak out through corroded seams. Small leakages can be temporarily repaired by soldering or welding, but Volkswagen service manuals recommend replacement as permanent. The recent Golf is still based on the same basic single-row or dual-row design; the only difference is that the core thickness matches the cooling capacity to grille space to keep the Radiator abreast with current power outputs yet compact and light.

Choose OEM Radiator for superior quality and long-lasting durability. They match the Volkswagen's factory specifications exactly and pass strict quality control. If you plan to replace Radiator on your Golf, put OEM at the top of your list. You'll get the right fit, reliable performance, and peace of mind. We stock an extensive inventory of genuine Volkswagen Golf parts. It is easy to find what you need. You will love our competitive prices that help you save. No more hassle with returns or guesswork. Every part includes a warranty straight from the manufacturer. Get trusted quality, strong durability, and real value today.

Volkswagen Golf Radiator Parts and Q&A

Radiator
5Q0-121-251-GQ
Q: What precautions should be taken when disconnecting the battery and replacing the radiator and coolant reservoir on Volkswagen Golf?
A:
If the battery is disconnected, several systems must be re-learned before they will work properly. For the replacement of the radiator shutter assembly (if equipped), follow the appropriate procedures. Begin by raising the front of the vehicle and securely supporting it on jackstands, then disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Remove the under-vehicle splash shield and drain the cooling system, followed by removing the engine cover and cooling fan shroud. Disconnect the hoses from the radiator, being prepared for some coolant to spill, and then remove the front bumper cover. Next, remove the air guide fasteners and the air guides from each side of the condenser, followed by the condenser to radiator bolts. Remove the radiator mount bolts and push the radiator towards the rear until the upper mounts can be removed from the sides, then lift the radiator up and out of the lower mounts. Installation is the reverse of removal, and after refilling and bleeding the system, run the engine and check carefully for leaks. For specific engine types, remove the clips securing the hose connectors, disconnect the coolant temperature sensor electrical connector, and lift the clips securing the hose connectors to the charge air system circuit cooler. Remove the radiator mounting bolts, slide the radiator towards the engine until the upper mounts are free, and lift it out. Prior to installation, replace any damaged components. For the expansion tank, drain the cooling system until empty, detach the upper coolant hoses, disconnect the coolant level sensor connector, and remove the mounting screws to lift the expansion tank and disconnect the lower hose. Ensure the reservoir is clean before installation, which is the reverse of removal.