This procedure covers the replacement of the upper radiator hose on a 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla with the 1.8L I4 engine, including coolant drain and refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if reusing original clamps show corrosion) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

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

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
3. Place drain pan beneath the radiator drain plug location on driver side of radiator
4. Remove the engine splash shield if better access to radiator drain is needed

Procedure

1. 1

   Relieve cooling system pressure
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to the first stop and allow any residual pressure to escape. Once pressure is released, press down and continue turning to remove the cap completely.
2. 2

   Drain coolant
   Locate the radiator drain plug on the driver side bottom of the radiator. Turn the drain plug counterclockwise to open and drain approximately 2-3 quarts of coolant into the drain pan. You do not need to drain the entire system. Close the drain plug once coolant level drops below the upper hose connection point.
3. 3

   Remove upper hose at radiator end
   Locate the upper radiator hose connection at the top driver side of the radiator. Using a flathead screwdriver or hose clamp pliers, loosen the hose clamp by squeezing the tabs together or expanding the worm gear clamp. Slide the clamp away from the radiator neck. Twist the hose gently to break the seal, then pull it off the radiator neck. Have a shop towel ready to catch residual coolant.
4. 4

   Remove upper hose at thermostat housing end
   Follow the upper radiator hose to the engine side connection at the thermostat housing on the front of the engine. Loosen the hose clamp using the same method. Slide the clamp away from the housing neck. Twist and pull the hose to remove it from the thermostat housing. Allow remaining coolant in the hose to drain into the pan.
5. 5

   Inspect connection points
   Clean both the radiator neck and thermostat housing neck with a shop towel. Inspect for cracks, corrosion, or damage. Check that the sealing surfaces are smooth and free of old rubber residue.
6. 6

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Slide new hose clamps onto each end of the new upper radiator hose before installation. Position the hose onto the thermostat housing neck first, pushing it fully onto the neck until it seats against the bead. Then route the hose to the radiator and push it fully onto the radiator neck until seated.
7. 7

   Secure hose clamps
   Position each hose clamp approximately 1/2 inch from the end of the hose, centered over the neck bead. Tighten the clamps securely. If using torque specifications, tighten to spec. Ensure the hose is fully seated and the clamps are positioned correctly.
   Torque spec

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

   Refill cooling system
   Using a funnel, pour the reserved coolant (if clean and reusable) back into the radiator through the radiator cap opening. Add fresh Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) as needed to bring level to the base of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap.
9. 9

   Bleed cooling system
   Start the engine and allow it to idle with the heater set to maximum temperature. Monitor the temperature gauge to ensure it reaches normal operating temperature (thermostat opens). Watch for coolant circulation. Run for 5-10 minutes, then shut off and allow to cool for 15 minutes.
10. 10

    Check and top off coolant
    Once engine has cooled, carefully remove the radiator cap and check coolant level. Top off to the base of the filler neck if needed. Also check the coolant reservoir and fill to the FULL line. Reinstall the radiator cap securely.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the engine splash shield if it was removed
2. Wipe down the engine bay to remove any coolant residue
3. Verify all clamps are tight and properly positioned

Verification

• With engine cold, visually inspect both hose connections for signs of coolant seepage
• Start the engine and let it reach normal operating temperature while monitoring for leaks at both hose connections
• Check that the heater produces hot air, confirming proper coolant circulation
• Verify coolant level in the reservoir is at the FULL line after the engine cools down
• Check for proper engine operating temperature on the gauge (should reach and maintain normal range)
• Inspect the ground under the vehicle after overnight parking to confirm no coolant leaks

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