About radiator hoses

Radiator hoses do not need to be changed as often as they did in the past thanks to extended life coolants. But they still need to be inspected on a regular basis.

This page will discuss what you should look for and exactly how to visually inspect the rubber and plastic hoses on your automobile. Also included is a video that lets you see the actual inspection procedure.

If you perform your own oil changes, this is a good opportunity to inspect all engine compartment hoses. This would include any that carry engine coolant such as an upper or lower radiator hose as well as the heater lines and don't forget the water pump bypass.

The video below explains how to check these as well as some fantastic tips on how to replace them. Below the video I provide a few of my own tips that where not included, as well as special tools for hard to reach factory spring clamps.

The engine hose video takes you one step further and shows you some other rubber hoses that should be inspected during regular maintenance. Example: Engine compartment hoses such as fuel lines and vacuum lines. A leaking vacuum line may not ruin your day but it can decrease your average fuel economy by causing an imbalance in the air fuel mixture.

Radiator hoses video

Engine compartment service advice

Below on the left is a special tool from Mayhew I own that never fails. It is also very important to replace the coolant with the exact same type that was installed in the vehicle from the factory. There are different types on the market and it's not recommended to mix these different kinds of engine coolant.

All-Data can provide step by step instructions for the repairs as well as fluid capacity and types of antifreeze to install.

I would also like to point out in the video they showed you that sometimes radiator hoses can be quite stubborn to release. In the video they showed you using a screwdriver and razor blade.

These will definitely work, but I do recommend that you wear a pair of safety gloves, when using this method to remove the old car parts. They do make a special tool that works excellent for loosening the stuck parts.

This device has a screwdriver handle and a 90degree Hook at the end. This is easily inserted into the hose, and then you move it around the circumference to completely break loose the old part from its fitting.

I recommend that you take a look at my hand tool safety page to brush up on some safety tips that can prevent a trip to the emergency room to receive stitches.

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