This procedure covers removal and replacement of the lower radiator hose on a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 gasoline engine, including coolant draining and refilling.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Lower radiator hose × 1 — 16572-0V020 or equivalent
• Hose clamps (if reusing is not recommended) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) — 2.5 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch (minimum 2 hours cool-down time)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Remove the engine under cover using 10mm socket if equipped for easier access and to prevent coolant spillage on cover
4. Place drain pan underneath radiator drain plug location
5. Have replacement hose and new coolant readily available before starting

Procedure

1. 1

   Relieve cooling system pressure
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to the first detent to release any residual pressure. Wait for any hissing to stop, then remove the cap completely. Set aside in a clean location.
2. 2

   Drain coolant from radiator
   Locate the radiator drain plug on the bottom driver's side of the radiator. Position drain pan directly underneath. Carefully open the drain plug by turning counterclockwise and allow coolant to drain into the pan. You do not need to drain the entire system, but drain at least 2-3 quarts to drop the level below the lower hose connection.
3. 3

   Remove lower hose clamp at radiator
   Locate the lower radiator hose connection at the bottom of the radiator (driver's side). Use pliers or flathead screwdriver to loosen the spring clamp or worm-gear clamp securing the hose to the radiator outlet. Slide the clamp back along the hose at least 2 inches away from the connection point.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect hose from radiator
   Twist the hose gently while pulling away from the radiator outlet to break the seal. Pull the hose straight off the radiator nipple. Expect residual coolant to drain out. If the hose is stuck, carefully work a flathead screwdriver between the hose and nipple to break the seal, being careful not to damage the radiator outlet.
5. 5

   Remove lower hose clamp at water inlet
   Follow the lower radiator hose to the water inlet housing on the engine block (passenger side, lower front of engine). Loosen the clamp securing the hose to the water inlet using pliers or screwdriver. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the connection.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Twist and pull the hose off the water inlet connection. Remove the hose completely from the vehicle. Note the routing path of the hose for proper installation of the replacement. Check that no hose remnants remain on either connection point.
7. 7

   Clean connection surfaces
   Use a shop towel to thoroughly clean the radiator outlet and water inlet connection surfaces. Remove any old gasket material, corrosion, or debris. Inspect both connection points for cracks or damage. The surfaces should be smooth and clean for proper seal.
8. 8

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position the new lower radiator hose along the same routing path as the original. Ensure any orientation markings or curves match the original installation. Slide the hose clamps onto the hose before making connections. Push the hose fully onto the water inlet connection first, ensuring it seats completely against the ridge on the nipple.
9. 9

   Connect hose to radiator
   Push the opposite end of the hose fully onto the radiator outlet, ensuring it is seated completely against the ridge. The hose should be pushed on firmly until it bottoms out on both connections. Verify both ends are fully seated with no gaps visible.
10. 10

    Secure hose clamps
    Position the hose clamps approximately 1/4 inch from the end of each hose connection, centered over the radiator outlet and water inlet nipples. Tighten both clamps securely. If using worm-gear clamps and a torque wrench is available, tighten to specification. Ensure clamps are positioned correctly and the hose cannot slip off.
    Torque spec

    Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Close radiator drain and refill coolant
    Close the radiator drain plug securely. Using a funnel, slowly pour Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) into the radiator opening until it reaches the base of the filler neck. Allow time for coolant to settle and air bubbles to escape. Add more coolant as the level drops. Fill to approximately 1 inch below the filler neck opening.
12. 12

    Bleed air from cooling system
    With the radiator cap still off, start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the heater controls to maximum heat and fan speed. As the engine warms up and the thermostat opens, watch the coolant level in the radiator. Add coolant as needed to maintain proper level. Squeeze the upper radiator hose several times to help release trapped air. Continue this process until the engine reaches normal operating temperature and no more air bubbles emerge from the radiator.
13. 13

    Complete coolant fill and check reservoir
    Once the thermostat has opened and the system is fully bled (coolant circulating, heater producing hot air), add coolant to bring the radiator to the proper level. Install the radiator cap securely. Check the coolant reservoir tank and fill to the FULL line with coolant if necessary. Turn off the engine.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the engine under cover if it was removed, ensuring all fasteners are secure
2. Wipe down any coolant spillage from engine components and frame rails
3. Dispose of old coolant properly at an authorized recycling facility

Verification

• With engine at normal operating temperature, visually inspect both hose connections for any signs of coolant leakage
• Check that the heater produces hot air, confirming proper coolant circulation
• Verify coolant level in the reservoir is at the FULL line with engine warm
• After the engine cools completely, recheck coolant level in both the radiator and reservoir, topping off if necessary
• Test drive the vehicle and monitor the temperature gauge to ensure it remains in the normal range
• Recheck all connections for leaks after the first drive cycle, and check coolant level again after 24 hours of normal operation

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