I've read some previous threads about coolant and bleed valves and need some advice.
I need to replace a leaking coolant hose that attaches to the main coolant hose at the plastic fitting, the other end attaches down below to the water valve.

Mu question is will I need to drain and bleed the system to properly change this hose? Or, can I just change the hose, catching the coolant that comes out nad then top it back off and be done?

Thanks!

 

Your description of the hose in question is a little vague. Is it a radiator hose, the expansion tank hose, or one of the heater hoses? A picture would help anyone assist you.

If you are replacing a hose that is part of the cooling system, with the exception of the expansion tank, you will obviously be introducing air into the system therefore you must follow the bleeding procedure. Go back through the older posts that you read and make sure your comfortable doing it. I've never done it myself, but I also wouldn't hesitate to do it if I had to.

 

Yes you can. But let's stop and think a bit? Your car is a 2004 that is 5 years old. I am sure the car has never had a proper flush and change of coolant. Why not do this at the same time? Maybe even change the thermostat.
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