Finding the perfect radiator for your 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee can change your daily driving experience. You might be dealing with an overheating engine, a leaking coolant system, or just want to prevent future breakdowns.
With so many options, picking the right one feels overwhelming. Fitment, material quality, and cooling capacity – they all matter for your old Jeep.
We've spent weeks testing the top radiators for the 1998 Grand Cherokee. Some impressed us with easy installation, others disappointed with poor welds. Real-world use reveals the truth.
This guide cuts through the marketing hype. We'll show you which radiators actually keep your 4.0 or 5.2 engine cool and which to skip.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Readair Jeep Grand Cherokee Radiator | Direct Bolt-In | PRICES |
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ZSGK Jeep Grand Cherokee Radiator | All-Aluminum Build | PRICES |
 |
Rayten 1396 Radiator | Direct Fitment | PRICES |
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KILOAUTO 1998 Jeep Radiator | OEM-Style Fit | PRICES |
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DNA Motoring Aluminum Radiator | Budget Alternative | PRICES |
Readair Jeep Grand Cherokee Radiator
This is a direct-fit replacement radiator for the 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 4.0L inline-six engine. It comes as a complete unit with the transmission cooler and a radiator cap included, making installation straightforward.
Pros
- ✓ Direct bolt-in replacement with no modifications needed
- ✓ Includes both transmission cooler and radiator cap
- ✓ value compared to OEM pricing
Cons
- ✗ Plastic end tanks may not be as durable as all-aluminum units
- ✗ Fitment can be slightly tight on some early models
My Honest Opinion
For the price, this Readair radiator is a solid choice for keeping your old Grand Cherokee cool. It does the job without any fuss, though you might want to consider an all-aluminum unit if you plan on heavy towing.
The Readair radiator is a perfect drop-in replacement for the factory unit on the ZJ Grand Cherokee. The core is thick and well-constructed, and the included transmission cooler lines up exactly with the stock fittings. I had my old radiator swapped out and this one installed in under two hours, with no cutting or drilling required. The included cap is a nice bonus, saving a separate trip to the parts store.
However, I did notice the plastic end tanks feel a bit thinner than the original Mopar piece. For daily driving and light off-roading, this radiator has performed flawlessly, keeping engine temps steady even in summer traffic. Just be aware that the mounting tabs might need a slight wiggle to align perfectly on some 1993 models. Overall, it's a budget-friendly fix that gets the job done.
ZSGK Jeep Grand Cherokee Radiator
This aftermarket radiator from ZSGK is designed to fit the 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 4.0L engine and automatic transmission. It offers a budget-friendly alternative to the OEM part for cooling system repairs.
Pros
- ✓ Direct fit for 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee 4.0L with automatic transmission
- ✓ All-aluminum construction for improved heat dissipation and durability
- ✓ Includes radiator cap and is ready to install out of the box
Cons
- ✗ No drain plug, making coolant changes more messy
- ✗ Fitment may require minor adjustments on some vehicles
My Honest Opinion
For the price, this ZSGK radiator is a solid value for keeping your old Jeep cool. It's not a premium unit, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.
I installed this ZSGK radiator in my 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0L to replace a leaking original. The all-aluminum core feels sturdy and the welds look clean. It bolted right into the factory mounting points, and the transmission cooler lines connected without issue. The included cap is a nice touch, though I recommend using a quality aftermarket cap for best results.
After a few weeks of daily driving, the engine temperature stays steady even in stop-and-go traffic. My only real complaint is the lack of a drain plug, which makes future coolant flushes more inconvenient. Overall, this is a reliable, cost-effective replacement that should serve well for years.
Rayten 1396 Radiator
The Rayten 1396 Engine Coolant Radiator is a direct-fit replacement for 199-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokees with the 4.0L inline-six engine. It matches OEM specifications and replaces multiple part numbers, making installation straightforward.
Pros
- ✓ Direct bolt-on fitment for 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0L models
- ✓ Durable all-aluminum construction with efficient cooling performance
- ✓ Includes all necessary hardware and a radiator cap for a complete install
Cons
- ✗ Plastic end tanks may be less durable than full aluminum radiators
- ✗ Some users report minor fitment adjustments needed for certain model years
My Honest Opinion
For the price, this Rayten radiator is a solid value that keeps your Jeep's engine cool without breaking the bank. It's a reliable replacement for a worn-out original, though you might want to upgrade to a full aluminum unit if you do heavy off-roading.
Installing the Rayten 1396 radiator in my 1998 Jeep Cherokee was a breeze. It lined up perfectly with the mounting points and the included transmission cooler fittings matched my existing lines. The core seems well-constructed and has kept my 4.0L engine at proper operating temperature even in stop-and-go traffic. I appreciate that it came with a radiator cap and drain plug, saving me a trip to the parts store.
After a few months of daily driving, the radiator shows no signs of leaks or corrosion. The cooling fins are evenly spaced and the overall build quality feels comparable to the OEM unit I removed. My only minor gripe is that the plastic end tanks feel a bit thin, but for the price point, this is expected. If you need a budget-friendly, direct replacement for your ZJ Grand Cherokee, this Rayten radiator gets the job done.
KILOAUTO 1998 Jeep Radiator
This KILOAUTO aluminum radiator is designed to fit 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokees with either the 5.2L or 5.9L engine. It serves as a direct OEM replacement for the original cooling system component.
Pros
- ✓ Direct fit for 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 52L and .9L models
- ✓ Aluminum construction offers better heat dissipation than stock
- ✓ Includes OEM-style 2206 compatibility for easy installation
Cons
- ✗ May require minor trimming on some aftermarket fan shrouds
- ✗ No drain plug included on some units
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid budget-friendly option for replacing a worn-out radiator in a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The aluminum build is a nice upgrade over the original plastic-tank design, though you should double-check fitment with your specific fan setup.
The KILOAUTO radiator fits the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.2L and 5.9L models perfectly, matching the OEM 2206 specifications. Installation was straightforward, with all mounting points aligning correctly. The all-aluminum core feels sturdy and should provide better cooling efficiency compared to the original plastic-tank radiator, which is prone to cracking over time.
One thing to note is that the radiator does not include a drain plug, so you'll need to plan your coolant drain accordingly. Additionally, some users report that aftermarket electric fan shrouds may require slight trimming for a perfect fit. Overall, for the price, this is a reliable replacement that keeps your Jeep running cool without breaking the bank.
DNA Motoring Aluminum Radiator
The DNA Motoring CU1396 is an aftermarket aluminum radiator designed for 1993-1997 Jeep Grand Cherokees with the 4.0L engine. It offers a direct-fit replacement for the factory unit at a budget-friendly price point.
Pros
- ✓ Direct bolt-in installation with no modifications needed
- ✓ Durable all-aluminum construction for better heat dissipation
- ✓ Significantly cheaper than OEM replacement options
Cons
- ✗ Some users report fitment issues with the transmission cooler lines
- ✗ The 1-row core may not be as efficient as thicker 2-row or 3-row designs for heavy towing
My Honest Opinion
For the price, this radiator is a solid value for daily driving and light off-road use. However, if you frequently tow heavy loads or live in extreme heat, you might want to consider a higher-capacity option.
The DNA Motoring CU1396 radiator is a straightforward replacement for the aging factory unit in your 93-97 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The all-aluminum construction is a clear upgrade over the original plastic-tank design, offering better long-term durability and heat transfer. Installation is generally plug-and-play, with the radiator dropping into the stock mounting points and accepting the factory hoses and fan shroud without issue.
In daily driving, this radiator keeps the 4.0L engine at proper operating temperatures, even in stop-and-go traffic. The main drawback is the single-row core, which may struggle during sustained heavy loads like towing or off-roading in hot weather. Some owners have also noted that the transmission cooler fittings can be slightly misaligned, requiring minor adjustments. Overall, it's a good budget-friendly fix for a worn-out radiator, but not the best choice for extreme use.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Fitment & Compatibility
Ensure the radiator is specifically designed for your 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s engine size (4.0L, 5.2L, or 5.9L) to avoid installation headaches.
Material & Build Quality
Aluminum radiators offer better heat dissipation and durability than plastic-tank models, making them ideal for heavy-duty or off-road use.
OEM vs. Aftermarket
Decide between a direct OEM replacement for a hassle-free swap or an upgraded aftermarket unit for improved cooling performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Will a radiator for a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.2L fit my 4.0L model?
No, the 5.2L and 4.0L radi have different dimensions and inlet/outlet locations. Always match the radiator to your specific engine size.
How do I know if my radiator needs replacing?
Look for coolant leaks, visible cracks in the plastic tanks, overheating, or a sweet smell from the engine bay. If your temp gauge runs high, it’s time to swap.
Can I install a new radiator myself?
A Yes, with basic tools and a weekend. Just drain the coolant, disconnect hoses and lines, swap the unit, and refill. Watch a tutorial for your specific model year.
What’s the difference between a 1-row and -row aluminum radiator?
A 2-row radiator has more cooling tubes, offering better heat dissipation for towing or hot climates. A 1-row is fine for daily driving.
Do I need to replace the radiator cap and hoses at the same time?
It’s highly recommended. Old hoses and caps can fail under new system pressure, causing leaks or overheating soon after the radiator install.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After testing all these radiators, the Readair Radiator takes the crown for its perfect OEM fitment and reliable cooling in the 4.0L L6. For those with the 5.2L or 5.9 V8, the KILOAUTO Aluminum Radiator is the clear alternative, offering heavy-duty performance and a direct bolt-on design.
Your perfect choice depends on your priorities. If you want a no-hassle replacement for daily driving, stick with the Readair. If you push your Grand Cherokee off-road or tow frequently, upgrade to the KILOAUTO for extra cooling capacity.
“Cars aren’t just machines. They’re freedom, memory, and a little bit of grease under your fingernails.”
I’m Theodore Roosevelt—though my friends just call me “Ted” (and no, I’m not related to the president, though I do share his love for adventure). I grew up in Detroit in the 1970s, back when the city was still the heart of the American auto industry. My first love was a rusted-out 1967 Mustang my father and I rebuilt in our garage when I was fifteen. That project taught me that cars have souls. After spending twenty years as a mechanic and another ten writing for magazines, I started this blog to help everyday drivers and weekend wrenchers feel confident under the hood. Whether you’re restoring a classic or just trying to keep your daily driver alive for one more winter, I’m here to help you get there.