2020-2025 Range Rover Evoque Radiator Support: Collision Damage, Inspection, and Replacement
Your guide to inspecting, identifying, and replacing the front radiator support brackets on the second-generation Evoque, which are often damaged in minor impacts.
- Radiator support failure is almost always due to a front-end collision or impact.
- The most common symptoms are visible damage and misaligned front body panels like the bumper and headlights.
- When buying a used part, meticulously inspect all mounting tabs and check for hairline cracks.
- Replacement is a complex job (4/5 difficulty) and not recommended for DIYers because it requires removing the entire front bumper and evacuating the A/C system.
Symptoms of a Damaged Radiator Support Bracket
Since the radiator support is a structural component, signs of failure are almost always visible or related to the alignment of other front-end parts. Damage typically results from a front-end collision, hitting a large pothole, or striking a curb.
- Visible Cracks or Breaks: The most obvious symptom is visible damage to the plastic or composite support brackets. Look for cracks, especially around mounting points where bolts attach.
- Misaligned Front-End Components: A bent or broken support will cause other parts to shift. Look for an uneven gap between the bumper and the body, headlights that appear crooked, or a hood that is difficult to open or close.
- Loose Radiator or Fans: Open the hood and gently try to move the radiator or fan shroud. If the assembly moves, rattles, or sags, the support holding it is likely broken.
- Rattling or Clunking Noises: Unusual noises from the front of the vehicle, especially when driving over bumps, can indicate a loose radiator assembly knocking against the frame.
- Cooling Issues: While the support itself doesn't cause overheating, a damaged one can allow the radiator to shift and stress coolant hoses, potentially causing leaks. In severe cases, it could also misalign the cooling fan, affecting its operation.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Land Rover directly concerning the failure of the radiator support brackets on the 2020-2025 Range Rover Evoque. Failures of this part are almost exclusively caused by external factors like collisions rather than a manufacturing defect. Several recalls exist for this generation of Evoque for issues like malfunctioning airbags and DC-DC converter failures, but none pertain to the core support structure.
Pro Tip: Always check for any open recalls on a vehicle, even if they don't seem related to the part you are replacing. A body shop may have performed a previous collision repair improperly, which could be the root cause of the support bracket failure.
Buying a Used Radiator Support Bracket: What to Check
For a structural component like this, a used OEM part is often a better choice than a new, cheap aftermarket one. OEM parts guarantee correct fitment, which is critical for proper alignment of headlights, the bumper, and the hood. An ill-fitting aftermarket support can cause significant installation headaches.
Physical Inspection Checklist
- Verify Part Numbers: The Evoque uses several different support pieces. The main upper support is often called an "Upper Tie Bar," while side brackets hold the assembly to the frame. Confirm the exact part number you need. Key numbers include LR171853 (Upper Tie Bar), LR125669 (Right Side Bracket), and LR125670 (Left Side Bracket).
- Inspect All Mounting Points: Carefully check every hole, tab, and clip location. These are common weak points. A bracket with a broken tab may not hold the radiator assembly securely, leading to vibrations.
- Check for Hairline Cracks: Stress from a previous impact can create small, hard-to-see cracks. Flex the part slightly and inspect it under good light, paying close attention to corners and sharp angles.
- Look for Warping: Lay the bracket on a flat surface to ensure it is not bent or twisted. A warped support will make it impossible to align the front-end panels correctly.
- Avoid Repaired Parts: Be wary of any signs of plastic welding, epoxy, or glue. These repairs are often a temporary fix and will not have the same structural integrity as an intact original part.
Replacement Overview and Difficulty
Replacing the radiator support assembly is a complex job that requires significant disassembly of the vehicle's front end.
- Difficulty: 4 out of 5
- DIY Feasibility: Not recommended for beginners. 🎬 Watch this video to see a radiator repair walkthrough. This job requires removing the front bumper cover, headlights, and potentially the crash bar.
- Special Procedures: The A/C system's condenser is attached to the radiator support. To fully remove the support, the A/C system must be professionally evacuated of refrigerant first and then recharged after installation. Failure to do this is dangerous and illegal in many areas.
Warning: The A/C system is under high pressure. Attempting to disconnect the lines without proper equipment can cause severe injury and release refrigerant into the atmosphere.
| Part Number | Description | Position |
|---|---|---|
| LR171853 | Upper Tie Bar / Radiator Support | Front Upper |
| LR125669 / K8D2-8226-AC | Side Support Bracket / Plate | Right |
| LR125670 / K8D2-8227-AC | Side Support Bracket / Plate | Left |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive with a broken radiator support?
It is not recommended. A broken support compromises the structural integrity of the front end. The radiator could shift, leading to coolant hose failure, engine overheating, and further damage. It is unsafe to drive with a loose radiator.
Is the radiator support the same as the 'core support'?
Yes, the terms are often used interchangeably. 'Core support' refers to the structure that holds the radiator 'core' and the associated cooling components.
Will a bad radiator support cause the 'Check Engine' light to come on?
Not directly. However, if the damaged support causes the cooling fan to malfunction or a coolant leak to develop, the resulting overheating condition could trigger a Check Engine light.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the radiator support?
The radiator support itself does not affect wheel alignment. However, since this part is almost always damaged in a collision, it is a very good idea to have the wheel alignment checked to find any other bent suspension or frame components from the impact.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: K8D2-8226-AC K8D2-8227-AC LR125669 LR125670 LR171853
The assembly consists of a main upper tie bar and left/right side support brackets, typically made from a high-strength composite material.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Land Rover Range Rover Evoque: