This procedure covers the removal and replacement of both upper and lower radiator hoses on the 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 gasoline engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Radiator hose clamps (if reusing original clamps shows wear) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

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

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch (minimum 2 hours after last operation)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain plug location
4. Remove engine splash shield if equipped by removing plastic fasteners and 10mm bolts

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Slowly open the radiator cap by turning counterclockwise to release any residual pressure. Once pressure is released, remove the cap completely. Locate the radiator drain plug on the driver's side lower corner of the radiator. Open the drain plug and allow coolant to drain completely into the drain pan. This will take approximately 5-10 minutes.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove engine cover
   Remove the plastic engine cover by pulling upward on the four corner clips. The cover may require a firm pull to release. Set the cover aside in a clean area.
3. 3

   Access upper radiator hose
   Locate the upper radiator hose connection at the radiator (passenger side of radiator, upper corner) and at the engine thermostat housing. The hose runs from the right side of the radiator to the thermostat housing on the engine block.
4. 4

   Remove upper radiator hose
   Using pliers or hose clamp pliers, squeeze and slide the spring clamp at the radiator end away from the connection point (approximately 2 inches back on the hose). Twist the hose gently to break the seal, then pull it off the radiator neck. Repeat this process at the thermostat housing end. Remove any residual coolant with shop towels.
5. 5

   Access lower radiator hose
   Working from underneath the vehicle, locate the lower radiator hose connection at the bottom of the radiator (driver's side) and at the water pump inlet on the engine block. You may need to reach through the front grille area or work from below.
6. 6

   Remove lower radiator hose
   Using pliers or hose clamp pliers, squeeze and slide the spring clamp at the radiator end away from the connection point. Twist the hose to break the seal and pull it off the radiator outlet. Repeat at the water pump end. The lower hose may contain residual coolant, so position your drain pan accordingly.
7. 7

   Inspect connections and clean surfaces
   Inspect the radiator necks, thermostat housing, and water pump connections for cracks, corrosion, or damage. Clean all connection surfaces with a shop towel to ensure proper sealing of new hoses. Check spring clamps for proper tension; replace if weakened or damaged.
   ⚠If radiator necks show cracks or damage, the radiator must be replaced before installing new hoses to prevent future leaks.
8. 8

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Slide the spring clamps onto the new upper radiator hose (one clamp approximately 2 inches from each end). Apply a thin film of coolant to the inside of both hose ends for lubrication. Push the hose firmly onto the thermostat housing until it seats completely against the ridge. Slide the clamp into position over the connection point. Repeat at the radiator end, ensuring the hose routing follows the original path without kinks or sharp bends.
9. 9

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Slide the spring clamps onto the new lower radiator hose. Apply coolant to the inside of both hose ends. Install the water pump end first, pushing firmly until seated against the ridge. Position the clamp over the connection. Route the hose to the radiator outlet, ensuring proper clearance from belts and moving components, then install onto the radiator outlet. Position the clamp over the connection.
10. 10

    Close drain plug and refill system
    Close and tighten the radiator drain plug to specification using a torque wrench. Using a funnel, slowly pour Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (premixed pink coolant) into the radiator fill neck until coolant reaches the base of the neck. Allow time for coolant to flow through the system and air bubbles to escape. Continue adding coolant as the level drops.
    ℹ️Do not mix different types or colors of coolant. Use only Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) for this vehicle.
    Torque spec

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

    Bleed cooling system
    With the radiator cap still off, start the engine and let it idle. Turn the heater to maximum temperature and fan speed. As the engine warms, the thermostat will open and coolant will begin circulating. Watch the coolant level in the radiator and add coolant as needed. Run the engine until the cooling fans cycle on and off at least once, indicating the system has reached operating temperature.
    ⚠Keep hands and tools away from the cooling fan, which may start at any time once the engine is running.
12. 12

    Final fill and cap installation
    After the cooling fans have cycled and the engine is at operating temperature, turn off the engine and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Check the coolant level again and top off to the base of the radiator neck if needed. 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 necessary.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the engine cover by aligning the clips and pressing firmly until all four corners click into place
2. Reinstall the engine splash shield if removed, securing all fasteners
3. Wipe down any coolant residue from engine components and surrounding areas

Verification

• With the engine at operating temperature, visually inspect all four hose connections for signs of coolant leakage
• Check that all hose clamps are properly positioned over the connection ridges
• Verify the coolant level in the overflow reservoir is at the FULL line when the engine is cold
• Test drive the vehicle for 10-15 minutes, then recheck all connections and coolant level after the engine cools
• Monitor coolant level over the next few days and top off as needed while any remaining air purges from the system

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