Radiator Hose - Lower

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the lower radiator hose on a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with the 1.5L turbo engine, including coolant drainage and refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM Honda part 19502-6A0-A01 or equivalent
• Hose clamps (if reusing originals is not recommended) × 2 — Use OEM specification spring clamps

Fluids

• Honda Type 2 Coolant (Blue) — 6 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch (at least 2 hours after last operation)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels for safety
4. Open hood and locate lower radiator hose connecting from radiator lower tank to water pump on passenger side
5. Position drain pan beneath radiator drain plug and lower hose connection points

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Remove the radiator cap slowly to release any residual pressure. Locate the radiator drain plug at the bottom of the radiator on the driver's side. Open the drain plug and allow coolant to drain into the pan. If more complete drainage is needed, you may also drain from the lower hose connection point in the next step.
2. 2

   Access lower radiator hose at radiator end
   Locate the lower radiator hose connection at the bottom passenger side of the radiator. The hose is secured with a spring-type hose clamp. Position the drain pan directly under this connection point as residual coolant will drain when the hose is removed.
3. 3

   Remove radiator-side hose clamp
   Using hose clamp pliers or a flathead screwdriver, compress or release the spring clamp securing the hose to the radiator outlet. Slide the clamp back along the hose at least 2 inches away from the radiator connection. Note the orientation and position of the clamp for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Disconnect hose from radiator
   Twist the hose gently while pulling to break the seal between the hose and radiator outlet pipe. Pull the hose straight off the radiator connection. Allow remaining coolant to drain into the pan. Inspect the radiator outlet pipe for damage, cracks, or corrosion.
5. 5

   Access water pump connection
   Trace the lower hose to the water pump inlet on the passenger side of the engine block, below the accessory belt area. You may need to reach down or use a mirror to clearly see the connection point. Position the drain pan to catch any remaining coolant.
6. 6

   Remove water pump-side hose clamp
   Using hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver, release the spring clamp at the water pump connection. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the pump inlet. This connection may be tight due to heat cycling.
7. 7

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Twist and pull the hose to disconnect it from the water pump inlet. Remove the hose completely from the vehicle. Inspect both connection points on the old hose for cracks, hardening, or degradation. Check the water pump inlet pipe for damage or corrosion.
8. 8

   Prepare new hose and clamps
   Compare the new lower radiator hose to the old one to verify correct length and bend configuration. Slide the hose clamps onto the new hose in the correct orientation before installation. Position one clamp approximately 1 inch from each end of the hose.
9. 9

   Install hose to water pump
   Push the hose firmly onto the water pump inlet until it seats completely against the stop ridge on the inlet pipe. Ensure the hose is fully engaged with no gaps visible. Slide the hose clamp into position approximately 1/4 inch from the end of the hose, centered over the inlet pipe.
   ℹ️Ensure hose is pushed on completely until it bottoms out on the pipe ridge to prevent coolant leaks.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install hose to radiator
    Route the hose to the radiator lower outlet, ensuring it follows the original path without kinks or sharp bends. Push the hose firmly onto the radiator outlet pipe until fully seated. Position the clamp approximately 1/4 inch from the hose end, centered over the connection. Secure the clamp using hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver.
    Torque spec

    Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Close drain and refill coolant
    Close the radiator drain plug securely. Fill the cooling system through the radiator cap opening with Honda Type 2 (blue) coolant. Pour slowly to allow air to escape. Fill until coolant is visible at the bottom of the filler neck. Also check and fill the coolant reservoir to the MAX line.
    ⚠Use only Honda Type 2 coolant (blue). Do not mix with other coolant types as this can cause cooling system damage.
12. 12

    Bleed cooling system
    With the radiator cap off, start the engine and allow it to idle. Set the heater to maximum temperature and fan speed. Watch the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant as the level drops during thermostat opening and air purging. Continue until coolant circulates steadily without air bubbles and the upper radiator hose becomes hot.
    ⚠Monitor engine temperature gauge closely during bleeding. Do not allow engine to overheat. Shut down immediately if temperature exceeds normal range.
13. 13

    Final fill and cap installation
    With engine at operating temperature and coolant circulating, top off radiator to the bottom of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap securely. Check coolant reservoir level and adjust to MAX line if needed. Shut off engine.

Reassembly

1. Verify both hose clamps are properly tightened and positioned correctly on their connection points
2. Wipe down any spilled coolant from engine bay components and undercarriage
3. Dispose of old coolant properly at a recycling center or auto parts store - do not pour down drains

Verification

• With engine cold, verify coolant level is at the bottom of the radiator filler neck and reservoir is at MAX line
• Inspect both hose connections visually for any seepage or wetness around the clamps
• Start engine and bring to operating temperature while monitoring for leaks at both hose connections
• Check engine temperature gauge remains in normal range during a 10-minute idle period
• After engine cools, recheck coolant level in both radiator and reservoir - top off if needed
• Inspect under vehicle for any coolant drips or puddles after overnight parking

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