Radiator Hoses

What is a radiator hose?

Radiator hoses are part of the engine cooling system. They complete the water circulation process by routing and connecting the engine unit to the heating matrix and cooling radiator. Radiator hoses are made of a reinforced rubber like material that are moulded to specific shapes that are bent to fit correctly in the engine bay.

What comes with a radiator hose?

Radiator hoses are generally sold individually and for the specific hose location in the engines cooling circuit. The clips are not provided unless specifically shown in the stock image or stated in the parts information notes.

How do I choose the correct radiator hose?

Understanding the location of the hose that is required is important. If you are able to obtain the OE part number for the hose that you need to replace then you can search for parts that match. Our website has a useful OE part number search function that will show parts that match your OE part number.

If you are unable to obtain the OE part number here are some factors to consider when choosing a correct replacement hose:

• Manual or automatic transmission

• Engine code

• Location of hose (i.e. upper, lower, inlet, outlet, to overflow tank etc)

• Vehicle manufacture date (this is not the date the vehicle was registered but the date it was made

• Engine number sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• VIN (chassis number) sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

What brand of radiator hose should I choose?

There not that many aftermarket makers of radiator hoses when compared to other serviceable parts. These hoses are precision design and engineered to fit perfectly in their specific fitment location. Brands such as Gates and Febi offer high quality aftermarket hoses at an affordable price point.

Choice of brand is not usually an option. It is more a case of being able to find the correct part in stock.

How can I tell my radiator hose needs replacing?

A broken radiator hose is probably one of the easier faults to diagnose. Coolant or steam escaping from the hose is a sure sign that it needs replacing.

There are other signs that a radiator hose may need replacing prior to it failing. These are:

• Cracks or splits in the hose

• Bulging of the hose

• The hose is crunchy when squeezed or moved

• Coolant is leaking