A problem with the radiator on the Fiat 500l.

In this video we see that the YouTuber, during the maintenance, noticed that the coolant, which was a bright pink color, has turned black, to the point where it is not even possible to see the level. The suspicion is a burnt engine head, which would allow oil to mix with the coolant.

However, upon a visual examination from the oil cap, there is no emulsion similar to mayonnaise (oil + water) that forms in these cases, so the identified culprit is the oil/water heat exchanger, which cools the oil using the coolant, but the two fluids should never mix. If the component wears out, oil can enter the cooling system, darkening the liquid.

We then see how to replace the heat exchanger.

We lift the vehicle using jack stands, drain all the coolant, remove the turbo pipe and other obstacles to access the heat exchanger, which is located under the oil filter, secured with 4 screws. Once removed, the signs of wear and leaks are clearly visible.

We install the new heat exchanger, which can be found for example on eBay with the code 276320316401 at a price of 86.99 euros, with free delivery. We also replace the o-ring to avoid future leaks, reconnect the pipes and fill the system with pink coolant.

After the replacement, we clean the cooling system with a specific product to remove oil residues.