This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the lower radiator hose on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine, including coolant draining and refilling.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if reusing damaged originals) × 2 — 25401-2E000 or equivalent

Fluids

• Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) — 7.5 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Open hood and prop securely
4. Locate the radiator drain plug on the bottom driver's side of the radiator
5. Place drain pan beneath radiator drain plug and lower radiator hose connection point at engine block

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Remove the radiator cap slowly to release any residual pressure. Open the radiator drain plug (petcock) at the bottom of the radiator and allow coolant to drain into the drain pan. If equipped with an engine block drain plug, open it as well to ensure complete drainage from the lower hose area.
2. 2

   Remove engine under cover if equipped
   If your Forte has a plastic engine under cover, remove the fasteners securing it using the appropriate tool. Some fasteners may be push-type clips while others are bolts. Set the cover aside to access the lower radiator hose connection point.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access lower radiator hose at radiator end
   Locate the lower radiator hose connection at the bottom passenger side of the radiator. Position the drain pan directly beneath this connection to catch residual coolant.
4. 4

   Loosen radiator-side hose clamp
   Using a flathead screwdriver or hose clamp pliers, loosen the hose clamp securing the lower radiator hose to the radiator outlet. If the clamp is a spring-type, squeeze and slide it back along the hose at least 2 inches. If it's a worm-gear clamp, turn counterclockwise to loosen but do not remove completely.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect hose from radiator
   Twist the hose gently while pulling to break the seal and remove it from the radiator outlet. If the hose is stuck due to age, carefully use a flathead screwdriver to break the seal between the hose and fitting, being careful not to damage the radiator outlet. Allow remaining coolant to drain.
6. 6

   Access engine-side connection
   Trace the lower radiator hose to its connection point on the engine block water pump or thermostat housing area. The connection is located on the lower passenger side of the engine. You may need to reach from below or remove the passenger-side wheel well liner for better access on some models.
7. 7

   Loosen engine-side hose clamp
   Loosen the hose clamp at the engine connection point using the same method as the radiator side. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the fitting.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Twist and pull the hose from the engine connection point. Remove the hose completely from the vehicle. Inspect both connection points (radiator and engine) for corrosion, damage, or debris. Clean the fitting surfaces with a shop towel if needed.
9. 9

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position the new lower radiator hose and install it onto the engine-side connection point first, pushing it fully onto the fitting until it seats against the stop. Ensure the hose routing matches the original configuration and does not contact any sharp edges or moving components. Then connect the radiator end, ensuring it is fully seated.
10. 10

    Secure hose clamps
    Position the hose clamps approximately 1/2 inch from the end of each hose connection. Tighten both hose clamps to the specified torque of 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft). Ensure clamps are positioned over the hose bead area for proper sealing.
    Torque spec

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

    Reinstall engine under cover
    If removed, reinstall the engine under cover and secure all fasteners. Tighten cover screws to 10.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft) if applicable.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Close drain points and refill coolant
    Close the radiator drain plug securely. Close any engine block drain plugs if opened. Using a funnel, slowly fill the cooling system through the radiator cap opening with Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green). Fill until coolant reaches the base of the filler neck. Also fill the coolant reservoir to the MAX or F line.
13. 13

    Bleed cooling system
    Start the engine and allow it to run at idle with the radiator cap OFF. Turn the heater to maximum heat and maximum fan speed. As the engine warms and the thermostat opens, coolant level will drop. Add coolant as needed to maintain level. Watch for coolant circulation and feel for warm air from the heater, indicating proper flow. Run until cooling fan cycles on at least once.
14. 14

    Final fill and seal system
    With engine at operating temperature, add coolant to bring level to the base of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap securely. Turn off engine and allow to cool. Once cool, verify coolant reservoir is at the MAX line. Check for leaks at both hose connections.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all hose clamps are tightened to specification and positioned correctly
2. Verify coolant reservoir is filled to the MAX line when cold
3. Double-check that radiator cap is installed securely

Verification

• With engine cold, visually inspect both hose connections for coolant leaks
• Start engine and allow it to reach operating temperature, monitoring for leaks at hose connections
• Verify cooling fan operates normally and engine temperature remains in normal range
• Check coolant level in reservoir after cool-down and top off if needed
• Test drive vehicle and recheck for leaks and proper engine temperature operation
• After 24 hours of operation, recheck coolant level and inspect connections one final time

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