If you ever see smoke leaking from underneath your hood, it might be a sign that your coolant hoses have failed or are about to fail. These coolant hoses help circulate radiator fluid throughout your car's system to keep the engine running at the proper temperature. The lower coolant hose supplies the engine with fresh coolant, while the upper hose carries heated coolant to the radiator for chilling. Changing the coolant hoses on your car will help keep the radiator system operating efficiently.
Move the car where you would like to change coolant hoses to a location that gives you enough room to work around the engine compartment. Shift the car into park and turn off the engine. Remove the keys from the ignition. Pop the hood. Allow the engine at least 45 minutes to cool.
Prop open the hood. Remove the radiator cap by turning it counterclockwise. Depending on your car model, you may have to press down on the cap as you turn. Pull the radiator cap out of the radiator.
Locate the radiator drain plug on the underside of the radiator. This is usually plastic or brass, and is located on either the driver or passenger side of the radiator. Place the drain pan underneath the plug. Turn the plug counterclockwise with the pliers. Allow the coolant inside to drain out. Replace the plug and secure.
Loosen the hose clamps on the upper coolant hose. This is located at the top of the radiator. One end of the hose will be attached to the radiator, while the other end will be attached to the engine block. Once the clamps are loose, use the knife to slit the hose horizontally.
Loosen the hose clamps and slit the hose on the lower radiator hose as you did with the upper one.
Apply a few drops of dish soap to the inside edges of the new upper coolant hose. Slip the hose into place between the upper part of the radiator and the engine block. Secure in place with the hose clamps. Repeat the process for the lower coolant hose.
Fill the radiator with a 50-50 mixture of antifreeze or coolant and distilled water. Start the engine. Turn on the heater. Allow the coolant to circulate for about 10 minutes or until the engine reaches operating temperature. Top off the radiator with the 50-50 mixture of distilled water and coolant. Replace the radiator cap. Fill the radiator reservoir up to the "Fill" level with coolant.
