If you've had your car for more than four years, or have bought a used car and are uncertain when the radiator hoses were last replaced, you should check their condition. Doing so only takes a few minutes, but can save you a great deal of stress and money in the long run. If you've never done so and need to learn how to check radiator hoses, follow the instructions listed in this guide.

If you've had your car for more than four years, or have bought a used car and are uncertain when the radiator hoses were last replaced, you should check their condition. Doing so only takes a few minutes, but can save you a great deal of stress and money in the long run. If you've never done so and need to learn how to check radiator hoses, follow the instructions listed in this guide.

• Your vehicle's radiator hoses are responsible for carrying engine coolant to and from your radiator. To ensure that your engine continues to run properly, these hoses must be kept in good condition. As you may know if you've ever been faced with a leaky or blown radiator hose, without a regular supply of engine coolant, your engine can overheat. In some cases, this can cause severe and expensive engine damage. Therefore, taking the few minutes it takes to ensure that your hoses are in good functioning condition is well worth your while.

• As when performing any basic maintenance on your car, always wait for your engine to cool off before touching it.

• Because engine coolant and anti-freeze can be corrosive, wear a pair of disposable latex gloves while checking your radiator hoses.

• Once you are ready to check your radiator hoses, pop your vehicle's hood and prop it open.

1. Locate your radiator—it will be at the front of the engine
2. Find the two radiator hoses
3. Inspect the hoses for any signs of damage, bulging, leaking or cracking
4. Gently squeeze each hose. They should feel spongy and spring back into place after being compressed
5. Inspect each hose near the clamps. If the hoses rotate or if you feel any wetness near the clamps, tighten or replace the clamp, or have a professional do so

• If either of your radiator hoses show outward signs of leaking or deterioration or feel brittle, mushy, or remain flat after being squeezed, this is a sign of deterioration and you should have the hoses replaced. The clamps that hold the hoses onto the radiator should be tight and not allow for any fluid leakage or movement.

• Expert Village Video: How to Check Radiator Hoses (Time: 1:30)
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• Although there are many aspects of car repairs and maintenance that are best left to professional mechanics, checking a vehicle's radiator hoses is something that any car owner can do. Checking your radiator hoses only takes a minute of your time and can potentially save you from being stranded by the side of the road with an overheated engine.

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• Introduction
• Step 1: Before you Begin
• Step 2: Check the Hoses
• Conclusion