Radiator Hoses - Both

Replace both upper and lower radiator hoses on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo engine to prevent coolant leaks and maintain proper cooling system function.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — 19501-5AA-A00 or aftermarket equivalent
• Lower radiator hose × 1 — 19502-5AA-A00 or aftermarket equivalent
• Hose clamps (if not included with hoses) × 4 — Use OEM specification spring clamps

Fluids

• Honda Type 2 Coolant (Blue) — 6 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold (at least 2 hours after last operation)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain plug location
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on the front edge, then sliding forward to release rear clips
5. Open hood and support with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Locate the radiator drain plug on the driver's side lower corner of the radiator. Slowly turn the coolant reservoir cap counterclockwise to release system pressure, but do not remove completely. Position drain pan underneath and remove the radiator drain plug completely. Allow coolant to drain fully into the pan (approximately 6 quarts).
   Torque spec

   Coolant Drain Plug15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove air intake duct
   Loosen the clamp at the throttle body connection using a flathead screwdriver. Disconnect the air intake duct from the air filter box by releasing the spring clamp. Remove the intake duct to provide access to the upper radiator hose connection at the engine.
   ℹ️Set the air intake duct aside in a clean area to prevent debris from entering the system.
3. 3

   Remove upper radiator hose
   Locate the upper radiator hose running from the radiator to the thermostat housing on the engine. Using hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver, release the spring clamps or loosen the worm-drive clamps at both the radiator and thermostat housing connections. Twist the hose gently to break the seal, then pull it off both connections. Residual coolant will drain, so have a shop towel ready.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Access the lower radiator hose from underneath the vehicle or by reaching down from above. The hose connects the lower radiator outlet to the water pump inlet. Release the clamps at both ends using the same method as the upper hose. Twist and remove the lower hose, allowing any remaining coolant to drain into your pan.
   ⚠The lower hose may be difficult to access. Take care not to damage surrounding components like AC lines or wiring harnesses when working in this tight area.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Inspect hose connections
   Examine both the radiator and engine-side hose connections for corrosion, debris, or damage. Clean the connection surfaces with a shop towel. Check that the sealing surfaces on the radiator, thermostat housing, and water pump are smooth and free from old rubber residue or corrosion. If corrosion is present, clean gently with a non-abrasive pad.
   ℹ️This is the ideal time to inspect the thermostat housing and water pump for leaks or damage while hoses are removed.
6. 6

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position the new lower radiator hose with clamps pre-installed in the proper orientation (ensure any molded bends align correctly). Slide the hose onto the water pump inlet first, pushing it fully onto the connection until it seats against the ridge. Then connect the radiator end, ensuring full seating. Position clamps approximately 1/4 inch from the end of each hose connection and tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Install the new upper radiator hose with clamps pre-positioned. Connect the thermostat housing end first, ensuring the hose is fully seated on the connection. Route the hose to the radiator following the original path, ensuring it does not contact any sharp edges or moving components. Push the radiator end fully onto the connection and position clamps properly before torquing to specification.
   ⚠Ensure the upper hose does not contact the serpentine belt, fan, or any hot exhaust components. Maintain proper clearance to prevent chafing or heat damage.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reinstall drain plug and prepare for refill
   Clean the radiator drain plug and inspect the seal washer. If the washer is damaged or hardened, replace it. Thread the drain plug into the radiator hand-tight, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the plug is fully sealed before proceeding.
   Torque spec

   Coolant Drain Plug15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Refill cooling system
   Using a funnel, slowly pour Honda Type 2 (Blue) coolant into the radiator until it reaches the filler neck. Fill the coolant reservoir to the MAX line. Start the engine with the radiator cap off and allow it to warm up to operating temperature with the heater set to maximum heat. As the thermostat opens and air purges, coolant level will drop. Continue adding coolant to maintain level at the filler neck. Once the cooling fan cycles on and no more bubbles appear, the system is properly bled.
   ⚠Keep hands and tools clear of the cooling fan, which will activate automatically when the engine reaches operating temperature.
   ℹ️The bleeding process may take 15-20 minutes. Be patient to ensure all air is purged from the system to prevent overheating.
10. 10

    Complete coolant fill and reinstall components
    Once the system is fully bled and the engine is at operating temperature, shut off the engine and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Top off the radiator to the filler neck and ensure the reservoir is at the MAX line. Install the radiator cap securely. Reinstall the air intake duct, connecting it to the throttle body and air filter box, then tighten the clamps. Reinstall the engine cover by positioning it over the rear clips first, then pressing down at the front to engage the front clips.

Reassembly

1. Double-check all hose clamp torque specifications to ensure proper sealing
2. Verify the air intake duct is properly seated and all clamps are tight
3. Wipe down all surfaces to remove any spilled coolant
4. Clean and properly dispose of old coolant at an approved recycling facility

Verification

• With engine cold, verify coolant level is at the MAX line in the reservoir
• Start the engine and inspect all hose connections for leaks during warm-up
• Allow engine to reach full operating temperature and verify the cooling fan cycles on
• Check that the heater produces hot air, confirming proper coolant circulation
• After the first drive cycle, recheck coolant level when cold and top off if necessary
• Monitor coolant level and temperature gauge over the next few days to confirm no leaks or air pockets remain

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