Signs of failing Radiator Hoses

Leaks

You probably already knew this, but a leaking hose is always a bad sign. Your vehicle has a lot of liquids, and a lot of components that can cause leaking when they begin to fail. So, keep your eye open for a leak. The could be the result of a damaged radiator hose that you must replace.

Poor engine performance

Look, nobody wants to work hard when it’s hot out. Your car is no different. And failing a failing hose connected to the radiator can keep coolant from keeping your car cool. Which, as the name and common sense imply, is kind of its job. If the hose can't do its job, neither can the radiator. This results in an engine that isn’t cooling down properly, which can lead to diminished vehicle performance. Do you like poor engine performance? No? Okay then. Pay attention when your engine isn’t working right and replace the faulty hose compromising your radiator's performance.

Visibly damaged

As your vehicle's hoses near the end of their life, they’ll begin to crack or harden, and look like a garden hose that’s been left out in the sun for a few weeks. It’s not a pretty sight, and if you’re a good friend to your car, you’ll replace it. And while I’m not exactly expecting you to be spending your precious free time inspecting your hoses, you could surprise me. Or, more realistically, the technician changing your oil might notice that the hose has some visible damage. A radiator hose that’s on its way out will show signs of cracking and rigidity.

Engine is overheating

You know that temperature gauge on your dash? Well, it’s there to alert you when your engine is running at a temperature that is way too hot. If your radiator hoses fail, the engine won’t be able to be cooled properly, and you’ll end up with an engine that, if driven long enough, will start to overheat. That can cause serious damage, which I’m guessing you don’t want. So, do the easy thing and pay attention to your indicators.