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2015–2019 Ford Explorer

2015-2019 Ford Explorer - Radiator Hose Replacement

🔧🔧 Moderate 1-2 hours $60 DIY

Save $240 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $300

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

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Total Cost
$80.00
Part Name Part Number Price Buy
Upper or lower radiator hose for 2015-2019 Ford Explorer; verify hose routing and engine — $45.00
Correct replacement clamps if the original clamps are weak or damaged — $15.00
Vehicle-approved premixed coolant or concentrate; match the owner manual — $20.00

About prices: shown prices are estimates from typical Amazon listings and change frequently, and cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price on Amazon before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

1

Confirm the hose and prepare

Park the 2015-2019 Ford Explorer on level ground, set the parking brake, let the engine cool completely, and compare the new hose with the old one. Identify the upper, lower, bypass, or molded hose and verify the exact engine fitment.

2

Drain the coolant safely

Remove the reservoir or radiator cap only when cold. Place a drain pan under the approved drain point and drain enough coolant to remove the selected hose without a large spill; store reusable coolant only if it is clean and permitted.

3

Clear access to the connection

Remove the engine cover, intake duct, splash shield, fan shroud, or other parts only as needed on the 2015-2019 Ford Explorer. Protect nearby electrical connectors and note the original hose routing and clamp positions.

4

Remove the old hose

Release the clamps and slide them back beyond the hose bead. Twist the hose to break the seal before pulling; if it is stuck, use a hose pick carefully and never pry against a plastic neck. Plug or cap open ports to keep dirt out.

5

Install the replacement hose

Compare length, bends, molded ends, and internal diameter. Lightly wet the inside with the specified coolant if needed, push the hose fully past each bead, orient it without kinks, and place each clamp in its original sealing position.

6

Refill and bleed the cooling system

Reconnect removed parts, close the drain, and fill with the specified coolant using a spill-free funnel if appropriate. Follow the 2015-2019 Ford Explorer bleed procedure, run the heater as directed, and monitor for trapped air and falling level.

7

Pressure-check and road-test

Inspect every connection while the engine warms, confirm the temperature stabilizes and the heater works, then let the vehicle cool fully and recheck the level. Do not drive if there is a leak, soft hose, warning light, or overheating.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Removing a pressurized hose before the engine and coolant are cold
  • • Ordering the wrong upper/lower hose or engine application
  • • Cutting or prying against a plastic radiator neck or thermostat housing
  • • Leaving a clamp behind the bead or failing to fully seat the hose
  • • Skipping air bleeding, the cool-down level check, or a leak inspection