Replace the upper radiator hose connecting the engine to the radiator, including coolant drain and refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if reusing old clamps is not possible) × 2 — OEM or equivalent spring clamps

Fluids

• Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Place vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Position drain pan under the radiator drain plug location
4. Remove the engine cover by pulling upward on the front edge, then lifting away

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain coolant from system
   Locate the radiator drain plug at the bottom driver's side of the radiator. Slowly turn counterclockwise to open and allow coolant to drain into the pan. If drain plug is not accessible or stuck, disconnect the lower radiator hose at the radiator instead. Allow system to drain completely.
2. 2

   Locate upper radiator hose connections
   The upper radiator hose connects from the top of the radiator on the driver's side to the thermostat housing on the front of the engine block. Identify both connection points and the spring-type hose clamps at each end.
3. 3

   Remove radiator-side hose clamp
   Using pliers, compress the tabs on the spring clamp at the radiator end of the hose and slide the clamp back along the hose at least 2 inches away from the radiator neck. If using worm-drive style clamps, loosen with flathead screwdriver.
4. 4

   Remove engine-side hose clamp
   Repeat the clamp removal process at the thermostat housing end of the hose. Compress spring clamp tabs and slide away from the connection point, or loosen worm-drive clamp completely.
5. 5

   Remove upper radiator hose
   Twist the hose gently while pulling to break it free from both the radiator neck and thermostat housing. The hose may be stuck due to age; use a back-and-forth twisting motion. Once free, remove the hose completely from the engine bay. Remove the old clamps from the hose if they are to be replaced.
6. 6

   Clean connection surfaces
   Use a shop towel to clean the radiator neck and thermostat housing connection surfaces. Remove any old coolant residue, corrosion, or pieces of deteriorated hose material. Inspect both surfaces for damage or cracks.
7. 7

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new upper radiator hose approximately 1 inch from each end. Slide the radiator end of the hose onto the radiator neck until it seats against the bead. Then connect the engine end to the thermostat housing, ensuring both ends are fully seated.
   Torque spec

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

   Secure hose clamps
   Position each clamp so it sits over the hose approximately 1/4 inch from the end of each connection fitting. For spring clamps, ensure they are properly compressed and seated. For worm-drive clamps, tighten to 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft). Verify both connections are secure by attempting to twist the hose.
   Torque spec

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

   Close drain and refill coolant
   Close the radiator drain plug or reconnect the lower hose if it was removed. Remove the radiator cap and fill the radiator with Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Fill until coolant is visible at the base of the filler neck. Also fill the coolant reservoir to the MAX line.
10. 10

    Bleed cooling system
    With the radiator cap still off, start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the heater to maximum heat and fan to low speed. Watch the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant as the level drops due to air purging. Continue until the engine reaches operating temperature and the radiator cooling fan cycles on. Squeeze the upper radiator hose several times to help purge air bubbles.
11. 11

    Complete fill and install cap
    With engine still running, top off the radiator to the filler neck. Install the radiator cap securely. Check the coolant reservoir level and add coolant to bring it to the MAX line. Shut off the engine.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the engine cover by aligning the rear mounting grommets first, then pressing down on the front clips until they snap into place
2. Wipe down the engine bay and remove any coolant spills
3. Check the area under the vehicle for any coolant drips from the drain plug or lower hose

Verification

• Start the engine and allow to idle for 3-5 minutes while monitoring the temperature gauge for normal operation
• Visually inspect both ends of the upper radiator hose for any coolant leaks while the engine is running
• Check that the upper radiator hose becomes firm and hot to the touch as the engine warms up, indicating proper coolant flow
• After a test drive, recheck coolant level in the reservoir when engine is cold and top off if necessary
• Monitor coolant level over the next few days and top off as needed while residual air purges from the system

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