Leaking Radiator

[jeremyp]

My D2 recently went in for a service and I asked them to look it over including why it was using coolant - I now have to top it up about once a week.

They removed lots of trim and said my radiator was leaking. Replacement was a £180 part plus about 3-4 hours work to replace as it also cools the gearbox oil (?) and the bumper needs to be removed.

They said in passing "of course, gone are the days when you can pour in rad weld".

I have two questions please:
1) Does that sound about right for the part and the hours?
2) Why can't I use Rad Weld to tide me over until finances allow for the £400-£500 job.

Thanks, as always, for any help