This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the upper radiator hose on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including coolant draining and refilling.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if reusing originals are damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold before beginning work
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain petcock location
4. Have replacement coolant ready and at room temperature for easier mixing

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove engine cover
   Pull upward on the engine cover to disengage the retaining clips. The cover is held by clips only and does not require tools. Set the cover aside in a clean area.
2. 2

   Drain coolant from radiator
   Locate the radiator drain petcock on the driver side lower corner of the radiator. Place drain pan underneath. Turn the petcock counterclockwise to open and allow coolant to drain into the pan. You only need to drain approximately 2 quarts to drop the level below the upper hose connection. Leave petcock open until coolant flow stops.
   ⚠Coolant will flow quickly once petcock is opened. Ensure drain pan is properly positioned to catch all fluid.
3. 3

   Remove radiator cap pressure
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to the first stop to release any residual pressure in the system. Wait 5 seconds, then press down and turn further to fully remove the cap. This allows the system to drain more completely and prevents vacuum lock.
4. 4

   Disconnect upper hose at radiator end
   Locate the upper radiator hose connection at the radiator inlet (driver side of radiator). Use hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver to loosen the hose clamp by squeezing or turning the screw counterclockwise. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the connection point. Twist the hose gently to break the seal, then pull it straight off the radiator inlet neck. Some residual coolant will spill.
5. 5

   Disconnect upper hose at thermostat housing end
   Trace the upper hose to the engine thermostat housing connection on the front of the engine block. Loosen the hose clamp using the same method as the radiator end. Slide the clamp back along the hose. Twist and pull the hose to remove it from the thermostat housing neck. Allow any remaining coolant to drain.
6. 6

   Remove old upper radiator hose
   Fully remove the upper radiator hose from the engine bay. Inspect both connection necks on the radiator and thermostat housing for any damage, cracks, or excessive corrosion. Clean the connection surfaces with a shop towel to remove any old coolant residue or debris.
7. 7

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on each end of the new upper radiator hose before installation, with clamp screws accessible from the top. Route the new hose into position, ensuring it follows the same path as the original without kinks or twists. Push the thermostat housing end onto the neck first until it seats fully against the bead on the neck. Then connect the radiator end, ensuring full seating.
8. 8

   Tighten hose clamps
   Position both hose clamps so they are centered over the connection necks, approximately 1/4 inch from the end of each hose. Tighten both hose clamps to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the hose or cut into the rubber.
   Torque spec

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

   Close drain petcock and refill coolant
   Close the radiator drain petcock by turning it clockwise until snug. Torque to specification - hand tight only, do not use excessive force. Using a funnel, slowly pour Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) into the radiator filler neck until it reaches the base of the neck. Allow time for coolant to settle and air bubbles to escape.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Bleed air from cooling system
    With the radiator cap still off, start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the heater to maximum temperature and fan speed. Watch the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant as the level drops while air purges from the system. Run the engine until the cooling fan cycles on, indicating the thermostat has opened. The upper radiator hose should become hot to the touch. Add coolant as needed to maintain level.
    ⚠Keep hands and tools clear of the cooling fan and drive belts while engine is running. Monitor engine temperature gauge to ensure engine does not overheat during bleeding process.
11. 11

    Final coolant fill and cap installation
    Once the cooling fan has cycled and no more air bubbles are visible, top off the radiator to the base of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap by aligning the tabs and turning clockwise until it clicks into place. Check the coolant reservoir level and fill to the FULL line if needed.
12. 12

    Reinstall engine cover and perform leak check
    Align the engine cover clips with their mounting points and press down firmly until all clips engage with audible clicks. With the engine still at operating temperature, visually inspect both ends of the new upper radiator hose for any coolant leaks. Check around the hose clamps and connection points. Wipe the area dry with a shop towel and watch for any seepage.

Reassembly

1. Verify all hose clamps are torqued to specification and positioned correctly over the connection necks
2. Confirm radiator cap is fully seated and locked in place
3. Ensure engine cover clips are all fully engaged

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature while monitoring the temperature gauge for normal operation
• Check for coolant leaks at both upper radiator hose connections while engine is at operating temperature and pressurized
• Verify heater produces hot air at idle, confirming proper coolant circulation
• After the first drive cycle (50-100 miles), recheck coolant level in the reservoir when cold and top off if necessary
• Inspect hose connections after first heat cycle for any seepage or loose clamps

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