Replace both upper and lower radiator hoses on the 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 AWD, including coolant drainage and refill with proper bleeding procedure.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Radiator hose clamps (if reusing clamps shows wear) × 4 — OEM worm-drive clamps

Fluids

• Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine is completely cold (wait at least 2 hours after last operation)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Locate the radiator drain plug at the bottom driver's side of the radiator
4. Place drain pan beneath the radiator drain plug
5. Remove the engine cover by lifting upward (press-fit clips)

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain the cooling system
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to release any residual pressure, then remove it completely. Locate the coolant drain plug at the bottom of the radiator on the driver's side. Using a 10mm socket, loosen the drain plug and allow coolant to drain completely into the drain pan. Once drained, reinstall and torque the drain plug.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove upper radiator hose at radiator end
   Locate the upper radiator hose connection at the radiator (passenger side, top). Using hose clamp pliers or a flathead screwdriver, loosen the hose clamp at the radiator connection. Slide the clamp back along the hose. Twist the hose gently to break the seal, then pull it off the radiator neck. Be prepared for residual coolant spillage.
3. 3

   Remove upper radiator hose at engine end
   Follow the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing connection on the engine (front, driver's side of cylinder head). Loosen the hose clamp and slide it back. Twist and pull the hose off the thermostat housing neck. Remove the upper radiator hose completely from the vehicle.
4. 4

   Remove lower radiator hose at radiator end
   Access the lower radiator hose connection at the bottom of the radiator (driver's side). Loosen the hose clamp and slide it back. Twist the hose to break the seal and pull it off the radiator outlet. You may need to reach from underneath or remove the lower splash shield for better access.
5. 5

   Remove lower radiator hose at engine end
   Trace the lower radiator hose to the water pump or engine block connection (lower front of engine). Loosen the hose clamp and slide it away from the connection point. Twist and remove the hose from the engine. Remove the lower radiator hose completely from the vehicle.
6. 6

   Inspect connection points and clean
   Inspect all four hose connection points (radiator upper/lower, engine upper/lower) for corrosion, damage, or old gasket material. Clean the necks with a shop towel to ensure smooth, debris-free surfaces. Check that no plastic tabs or nipples are broken on the radiator or thermostat housing.
7. 7

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new lower radiator hose before installation. Connect the lower hose to the engine-side connection first, ensuring it seats fully onto the neck. Slide the clamp into position approximately 1/2 inch from the end of the hose and tighten. Then connect the radiator end, seat fully, position the clamp, and tighten.
   Torque spec

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

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new upper radiator hose. Connect the thermostat housing end first, ensuring the hose routes properly and seats completely on the neck. Position and tighten the clamp. Route the hose to the radiator, ensuring no kinks or interference with moving parts, then connect to the radiator neck. Position and tighten the clamp.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Refill cooling system with premixed coolant
   Using a funnel, slowly pour Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) into the radiator until it reaches the filler neck. Pour slowly to allow air to escape. Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses several times to help purge air bubbles. Continue filling until the coolant level stabilizes at the filler neck.
10. 10

    Bleed cooling system and verify operation
    Install the radiator cap. Start the engine and allow it to idle with the heater set to maximum temperature. Monitor the temperature gauge to ensure it reaches normal operating temperature (approximately 10-15 minutes). Watch for leaks at all hose connections. Once the thermostat opens and coolant circulates, turn off the engine and allow it to cool for 30 minutes. Recheck coolant level in the radiator and overflow reservoir, topping off as needed to the FULL mark.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the engine cover by pressing down firmly on all mounting points until clips engage
2. Double-check all hose clamps are tight and positioned correctly
3. Wipe down the engine bay to remove any coolant residue

Verification

• Start the engine and verify no coolant leaks at any of the four hose connection points
• Confirm the engine reaches normal operating temperature without overheating
• Verify heater produces hot air at idle and under load
• Check coolant level in overflow reservoir after the engine cools completely; should be at FULL mark
• Perform a final visual inspection under the vehicle for any drips 24 hours after repair
• Test drive the vehicle and monitor temperature gauge behavior under normal driving conditions

More procedures for this vehicle