Hose & Line Replacement Service in Dallas

Your vehicle's components require a variety of fluids, including coolant in the engine and fluids for the power steering rack. They receive these fluids through your car's hoses and lines, making them an integral aspect of a properly functioning vehicle. Since they're typically made of rubber, hoses can wear over time and will need replacement the longer you own and drive your car. Keep reading to learn when to replace your lines and hoses and how to know when to bring your Ford car, truck, or SUV in for service. 

How Often Should You Replace Hoses?

Automotive manufacturers typically recommend replacing your vehicle's hoses and belts once every four years. However, this can vary depending on the mileage of your car, truck, or SUV. If you drive your vehicle a lot or take long-distance trips frequently, you may need to have your hoses replaced even sooner. 

If you're unsure, bring your Ford vehicle to our dealership to talk to our team of trained technicians to have them assess the condition of your hoses and lines and determine whether they need replacing. Different hoses and lines may be subject to varying wear and tear over time, so it's important to understand and assess your vehicle's unique needs to keep it operating properly. 

What Do Vehicle Hoses Do?

Vehicles' hoses are integral aspects of their cooling systems. Because they're typically made out of rubber, they can handle vibrations from the engine but may be especially vulnerable to wear. They're designed to handle coolant under intense temperature changes, extreme pressure, and exposure to dirt, oils, and debris. Hoses break down from the inside out, making it hard for you as a driver to notice their deterioration. If they continue to decay, they can develop small holes and cracks, which can cause ruptures due to exposure to heat, pressure, and contractions. 

What Hoses Does Your Vehicle Have?

Your vehicle typically contains four major hoses, including heater hoses, radiator hoses, coolant hoses, and overflow hoses. Here's an overview of what they are and how they contribute to the proper functioning and operation of your car:

Heater Hoses

Heater hoses are small hoses that connect to a vehicle's heater core and allow you and your passengers to feel warmth while in the car. If there's an issue with these hoses, it may be difficult to control the internal temperature of the vehicle. In low temperatures and extreme weather, this can be dangerous, so it's essential to have your heater hoses checked and replaced routinely. 

Radiator Hoses

The upper radiator hose connects to your vehicle's radiator and thermostat, while the lower radiator hose connects the radiator to the water pump. A vehicle's engine coolant loses heat after passing through the radiator, supplied with energy from the water pump. The upper and lower radiator hoses are the biggest hoses within the engine's cooling system.

Coolant Hoses

Until the coolant within your vehicle reaches a particular temperature, its thermostat stays closed upon start-up. An externally mounted bypass hose prevents the coolant from traveling to the vehicle's radiator to cool. Instead, it directs the coolant back to the engine block where it belongs. 

Overflow Hoses

An overflow hose connects from your vehicle's reservoir tank to below the cap of its radiator. It helps store excess coolant. As a result of an increase of pressure in the cooling system from coolant temperatures, the valve on the radiator cap allows coolant to enter back into the reservoir to steer clear of coolant loss and pressure buildup. This can also help prevent pressure build-up and help your car function effectively. 

How To Recognize Your Hoses and Lines Need Replacement

It's important to do what you can to prevent belt and hose failure before it interferes with your driving experience and know when to replace them. A hose and belt failure can cause your vehicle to overheat or lose charging power and power steering. Engine overheating can create lasting damage to your vehicle that can end up costing you down the line. Here's how to stay on top of your hose and belt conditions and identify when to replace them before they fail:

• Check the coolant levels when the engine is cool to ensure it's at the correct level. If you notice it's low, add coolant and wait a day or two before checking its level again. If you notice the fluid level is low again, this may indicate a leak in a hose, and you should take your vehicle to a dealership as soon as you can. 
• Wait for the engine to cool and squeeze the vehicle's hoses between your forefinger and thumb near each hose clamp because these points are where decay and deterioration are most likely to occur. Take note of any crackling sounds or areas that seem soft and mushy since you want the hose to be firm, malleable, and not make any sounds. 
• Flush coolant through your vehicle every 30,000 miles you drive. Maintaining clean, new coolant throughout the engine can help you steer clear of damage inside the vehicle's hoses. 
• Look at the hoses and inspect them for any visible cracks, bulges, divots, or collapsed areas. You may also want to look for obvious wear near connection areas and any coolant or oil contamination.

For all of your hose and line replacement needs, visit Planet Ford Dallas at 3333 Inwood Road. You can schedule service online or give us a call at (972) 546-2641 to speak with a member of our team. The experts in our service center have the tools and experience needed to handle your Ford's repairs, replacements, and general maintenance and are proud to deliver friendly, efficient service. While you're here, you can also browse our selection of new and used vehicles to learn more about our inventory and watch for any Ford models that interest you.

Photo Credit: Shelby Mustang GT350 V8 Engine by priceman 141 is licensed with CC BY 2.0