Safety Glasses
Nitrile Gloves
Drain Pan
Ratchet & Socket Set
Radiator Hoses
Hose Clamps
Coolant
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
Before you begin, park the vehicle on a level surface. Chock the rear wheels and raise and support the front end of the vehicle. For steps on how to do this safely, check out this video.
Remove the splash shield under the vehicle’s bumper by removing the screws, bolts or trim clips. This will allow you to access the drain petcock, radiator hose clamp and lower hose.
Step 2: Drain Coolant
Open the hood and locate the radiator cap. Remove the cap and set it aside.
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Do It Right: Be sure to let the system cool before removing the radiator cap. Hot coolant is likely to be under pressure and can cause injury. |
Place the drain pan underneath the radiator. Make sure to use a clean pan if you intend to reuse the coolant.
Locate the radiator drain petcock, and open it by turning it counterclockwise. Drain all the coolant into the drain pan.
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Do It Right: See our video on flushing and filling the cooling system. |
When the coolant has completely drained, close the petcock and carefully position the drain pain underneath where the hoses will be detached.
Step 3: Remove Lower Radiator Hose and Reservoir Supply Hose
Use pliers to remove the clips from the reservoir supply hose.
Remove the clips and the lower hose clamp from the lower radiator hose.
Slip the hoses carefully off the radiator and reservoir supply line. Then remove the lower hose from the outlet of the water pump.
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Do It Right: It is possible to damage the radiator in the process of removing stubborn hoses, so it’s important to do this very carefully. If the hoses aren’t easily removed, you can also use WD-40 to help loosen them. You can also use a pick or screwdriver to loosen the hose around the radiator outlet, or cut a relief in the old hoses, since you'll be replacing them anyway. |
Now you should be able to remove the radiator hose assembly from the vehicle.
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Do It Right: Compare the old radiator hose to your new radiator hose and double check that they match before you install the new hose. |
Step 4: Install New Lower Radiator Hose
Install the new hose on the lower radiator outlet, water pump inlet, and reservoir tube.
Secure the new hose with new hose clamps.
Step 5: Remove the Upper Radiator Hose
Remove the radiator upper hose clamp.
Remove the thermostat housing hose clamp.
Remove the hose from the upper radiator and disconnect the radiator vent tube. Now, you should be able to remove the radiator hose assembly from the vehicle.
Step 6: Install New Upper Radiator Hose
Replace the upper hose and clamps. Connect the lower portion of the hose to the thermostat housing outlet first.
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Do It Right: If you use threaded hose clamps, make sure to tighten the clamps to manufacturer specifications. |
Connect the upper portion of the hose to the radiator inlet.
Step 7: Refill and Test the Radiator
Fill the radiator with coolant.
Start the engine, and wait for the vehicle to reach operating temparature. This could take 10 minutes or more. You want to be sure you see coolant circulating before replacing the cap.
Once fluid is circulating, add more if needed and replace the radiator cap.
With the engine running, turn on the heat. Once warm air starts blowing, turn the car off, wait for it to cool, and check the coolant level. Now, you may need to top off the reservoir with coolant so that it’s at the optimal level. Check for any leaks underneath the vehicle.
Replace the splash shield and retaining clips. Then lower the vehicle. After about a week, double-check the fluid level, and add coolant if needed.
Shop Engine Cooling
Shop radiator hose, radiator hose, water pumps, cooling fans, and more.
Cooling System Basics
A properly maintained cooling system will help your vehicle run at full efficiency.
How to Check and Fill Vehicle Fluids
Checking automotive fluids on a regular basis is an easy way to help ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.
The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.