Signs of a failing Upper Radiator Hose

Leaks

Imagine your upper radiator hose like a straw. If a straw breaks at all, it will leak when doing its job. And if a radiator hose is failing, then it will begin to leak. The area under your car should look clean and dry, so keep an eye out for liquids pooling under your car.

Poor engine performance

Look, nobody wants to work hard when it’s hot out. Your car is no different. A failing upper radiator hose can keep coolant from keeping your car cool. Not cool, radiator hoses. This results in an engine that isn’t cooling down properly, which can lead to diminished performance. Do you like poor engine performance? No? Okay then. Pay attention when your engine isn’t working right.

Notably damaged

Cracks and signs of hardening are sure-fire indicators that those hoses need to be put out of their misery. And while I’m not exactly expecting you to be spending your precious (riiiiight) free time visually inspecting the hoses, you could surprise me. Or, more realistically, the technician changing your oil might notice that the hose has some visible damage. You can also feel your hoses and get a good sense of where their lifespan is. If they are brittle or hard to the touch, then get them out of there. Radiator hoses should feel firm and rubbery. No crumbling or cracking under stress.

Engine is overheating

Here’s a fun fact about your car: It has indicators for a reason. One of the indicators next to your speedometer displays the temperature of the engine. It shouldn’t get too hot. An engine that is too hot is a liability. If your upper radiator hose fails, 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. So, when you see that temperature gauge rising high, you’ve got a problem. Pay attention to it.