This procedure covers removal and replacement of both the upper and lower radiator hoses on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine, including coolant drain and refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification (25414-2E001)
• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification (25415-2E001)
• Hose clamps (if reusing factory clamps is not possible) × 4 — 34mm-38mm worm gear clamps

Fluids

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

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch before beginning work
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain plug location at lower driver side of radiator
4. Remove engine splash shield if equipped to access lower radiator hose and drain plug

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to relieve any residual pressure, then remove completely. Locate the coolant drain plug on the lower driver side of the radiator. Using an appropriate socket, remove the drain plug and allow coolant to drain completely into the drain pan. This will take 5-10 minutes.
2. 2

   Remove upper radiator hose from radiator
   Locate the upper radiator hose at the driver side top of the radiator. Using hose clamp pliers or a flathead screwdriver, loosen the hose clamp at the radiator connection. Slide the clamp back along the hose at least 2 inches. Twist the hose back and forth while pulling to break the seal and remove from radiator neck. Residual coolant will drain, so position drain pan as needed.
3. 3

   Remove upper radiator hose from thermostat housing
   Follow the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing on the engine block (passenger side of engine). Loosen the hose clamp at this connection and slide it back along the hose. Twist and pull the hose to remove it from the thermostat housing outlet. Remove the upper hose completely from the vehicle.
4. 4

   Remove lower radiator hose from radiator
   Access the lower radiator hose connection at the bottom passenger side of the radiator. This may require reaching from underneath the vehicle. Loosen the hose clamp and slide it back. Twist and pull the hose to separate it from the radiator neck. Be prepared for additional coolant drainage.
5. 5

   Remove lower radiator hose from engine
   Follow the lower radiator hose to its connection point at the water pump inlet or engine block (lower passenger side of engine). Loosen the hose clamp and slide it back. Twist and pull to remove the hose from the connection point. Remove the lower hose completely from the vehicle.
6. 6

   Inspect connection points
   Clean all four connection points (radiator upper and lower necks, thermostat housing outlet, and water pump/engine inlet) with shop towels. Remove any old coolant residue, corrosion, or rubber deposits. Inspect the radiator necks and housing outlets for cracks or damage. Replace components if damage is found.
7. 7

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new lower radiator hose (one at each end), with clamp screws positioned for easy access. Install the hose onto the water pump/engine inlet first, pushing it fully onto the connection until it seats against the stop. Slide the clamp into position 1/2 inch from the hose end. Then connect the radiator end of the hose, ensuring it is fully seated, and position the second clamp.
8. 8

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new upper radiator hose (one at each end). Connect the hose to the thermostat housing first, pushing it fully onto the outlet until seated. Position the clamp 1/2 inch from the hose end. Then connect the radiator end, ensuring full seating, and position the second clamp.
9. 9

   Tighten all hose clamps
   Using a torque wrench or hand tools with care, tighten all four hose clamps to secure the radiator hoses. Ensure clamps are positioned properly on the hose barbs and not at the very edge of the connection. Verify each connection is secure and the hose cannot be twisted or pulled off easily.
   Torque spec

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

    Reinstall drain plug and refill coolant
    Install the radiator drain plug with a new sealing washer if available. Torque to specification. Reinstall the engine splash shield if it was removed. Using a funnel, pour Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) into the radiator until full. Install the radiator cap loosely. Fill the coolant reservoir to the MAX line.
    Torque spec

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

    Bleed cooling system
    Start the engine and allow it to idle with the heater set to maximum temperature. Watch the coolant level in the radiator through the cap opening. As the thermostat opens (typically 5-10 minutes), the level will drop. Add coolant as needed to maintain full level. When coolant circulates steadily and air bubbles stop appearing, tighten the radiator cap fully. Check the reservoir level and adjust to MAX line.
    ⚠Keep hands and tools clear of cooling fans which may activate at any time during this process.

Reassembly

1. Verify radiator cap is tightened securely after bleeding procedure is complete
2. Reinstall any trim panels or engine covers removed for access
3. Wipe down engine bay and radiator area to remove any coolant residue

Verification

• With engine at operating temperature, visually inspect all four hose connections for coolant leaks
• Check coolant reservoir level - should be at MAX line when engine is hot
• Verify heater produces hot air at idle, confirming proper coolant circulation
• After first drive cycle (next day), recheck coolant level in reservoir when engine is cold and top off if necessary
• Inspect hose connections again after 100 miles of driving for any seepage or loose clamps

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