How To Replace a Radiator Hose

Repco | 19th Nov 2024 | 2 minutes to read

Radiator hoses are responsible for transporting coolant between the engine and the radiator, facilitating the transfer of heat away from the engine, which helps to prevent the engine from overheating.

Constructed from durable materials like rubber or silicone, these hoses are designed to withstand high temperatures and pressure fluctuations, but over time, these hoses can deteriorate due to heat, pressure, and age, potentially leading to leaks or engine overheating.

A compromised radiator hose can result in coolant loss, reduced cooling efficiency, and ultimately, engine overheating, which can be costly to repair.

Replacing radiator hoses is mostly straightforward, though it can involve getting into some tight spaces and dealing with high temperatures, so it’s best to know what you’re doing before you start ripping apart your radiator.

Step By Step for Replacing Radiator Hoses

1
Park the car on a flat surface, and allow the engine to cool completely to avoid burns from hot coolant. Open the bonnet and locate the radiator hoses (upper and lower).
2
Place a drain pan under the radiator. Open the radiator drain plug or remove the lower radiator hose to let the coolant flow into the pan. Dispose of old coolant responsibly, following local environmental guidelines.
3
Loosen the clamps securing the hose to the radiator and engine. Use a screwdriver or pliers, depending on the type of clamps. Gently twist the hose to break the seal, then pull it off. If it’s stuck, avoid cutting into surrounding components.
Broken radiator hose in engine bay
4
Check the new hose for defects and ensure it matches the old one. Slide the new hose into place, connecting it to the radiator and engine. Secure the hose using the clamps, ensuring they are tight but not overly tightened, as this can damage the hose.
5
Check the new hose for defects and ensure it matches the old one. Slide the new hose into place, connecting it to the radiator and engine. Secure the hose using the clamps, ensuring they are tight but not overly tightened, as this can damage the hose.
Pouring corrosion inhibitor into coolant reservoir

Radiators and Cooling at Repco

To avoid damage to your radiator hose in the future, regularly inspect radiator hoses for cracks, bulges, or soft spots. Replace hoses at the intervals specified in your vehicle’s maintenance manual and make sure to use quality replacement hoses and clamps to ensure durability.

If you do need a radiator hose replacement, Repco sells a wide range of hoses for a ton of different makes and models of vehicle. You can use our Rego Search to make sure you get the right fitment for your hose, as well as grab some coolant, a radiator pressure testing kit, or even a new radiator while you're at it.