Replace both upper and lower radiator hoses on the 2018-2024 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 engine, including coolant drain and refill with Toyota Super Long Life Coolant.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (4 total) × 4 — Use OEM spring clamps or worm-drive clamps

Fluids

• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold before starting work
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain plug location
4. Remove engine splash shield if equipped using 10mm socket

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Slowly remove the radiator cap to release any residual pressure. Locate the radiator drain plug on the driver side lower corner of the radiator. Open the drain plug and allow coolant to drain completely into the drain pan. Once drained, reinstall and torque the drain plug to specification.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove upper radiator hose
   Locate the upper radiator hose connection at the radiator (driver side upper corner) and at the thermostat housing on the engine. Using hose clamp pliers or a flat blade screwdriver, reposition or remove the hose clamps at both ends. Twist the hose gently to break the seal, then pull firmly to remove from both the radiator neck and thermostat housing. Residual coolant will drain, so keep shop towels ready.
3. 3

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Locate the lower radiator hose connection at the radiator (driver side lower corner) and at the water pump inlet on the engine block. Reposition or remove the hose clamps at both ends. Twist and pull the hose to remove it from the radiator and water pump. Expect additional coolant drainage.
4. 4

   Inspect connection points
   Clean the radiator neck, thermostat housing outlet, and water pump inlet with shop towels. Inspect all connection points for cracks, corrosion, or damage. Check that the sealing surfaces are smooth and free of old hose material or debris.
5. 5

   Install lower radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new lower radiator hose before installation. Slide the hose onto the water pump inlet first, ensuring it seats fully onto the connection pipe. Then connect the radiator end, pushing firmly until the hose is fully seated on the radiator neck. Position clamps approximately 1/4 inch from the end of each hose and torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Install upper radiator hose
   Position new hose clamps on the new upper radiator hose. Connect the thermostat housing end first, ensuring full seating on the outlet pipe. Then connect the radiator end, pushing firmly until fully seated. Position clamps approximately 1/4 inch from the end of each hose and torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Refill cooling system
   Close the radiator drain plug if not already done. Using a funnel, slowly pour Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) into the radiator until it reaches the base of the filler neck. Allow coolant to settle and add more as needed. Install the radiator cap loosely.
8. 8

   Burp cooling system
   Start the engine and allow it to idle with the radiator cap still loose. Set the heater to maximum temperature and maximum fan speed. As the engine warms, coolant level will drop as air bubbles escape. Add coolant as needed to maintain level. Once the engine reaches operating temperature and the upper radiator hose becomes hot, the thermostat has opened. Continue running until cooling fans cycle on and off at least once.
   ⚠Keep hands and tools away from cooling fan, which may activate suddenly.
9. 9

   Final coolant level check
   With engine still running, top off coolant to the base of the radiator filler neck. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Install the radiator cap fully. Check the coolant reservoir level and fill to the FULL mark with coolant.
10. 10

    Inspect for leaks
    With the engine cool, inspect all hose connections at the radiator, thermostat housing, and water pump for any signs of coolant leakage. Wipe connections dry and look for fresh coolant seepage. Tighten clamps slightly if any minor seepage is observed.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine splash shield if removed
2. Verify radiator cap is properly seated and locked
3. Clean any spilled coolant from engine bay and undercarriage

Verification

• Start engine and verify no coolant leaks at any hose connections
• Confirm heater produces hot air at idle and operating temperature
• Check coolant reservoir level after first drive and top off if needed
• Monitor temperature gauge during test drive to ensure normal operating temperature
• Recheck all hose clamps and coolant level after 100 miles of driving

More procedures for this vehicle