Dodge Durango Radiator Coolant Hose Guide (2011-2019)
Everything a Durango owner needs to know about replacing failing or leaking radiator hoses.
- Radiator hoses fail from age and heat; look for leaks, cracks, or swelling.
- It is highly recommended to replace both upper and lower hoses at the same time to prevent future failures.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Gates and Continental are reliable alternatives to more expensive OEM parts.
- Check for proper clearance after installation to prevent the new hose from rubbing against other parts.
Is Your Durango's Radiator Hose Failing?
Radiator hoses are wear-and-tear items. They are made of rubber, which gets hard and brittle over time from constant heat and pressure. A failing hose can lead to serious engine damage from overheating. It's important to know the signs of a bad hose so you can replace it before it fails completely.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Radiator Hose:
- Coolant Leaks: This is the most obvious sign. You might see puddles of green, orange, or pink fluid under the front of your Durango. Leaks often start as small drips where the hose connects to the radiator or engine.
- Visible Damage: Inspect your hoses. Look for cracks, splits, or bulges. A swollen or soft hose is a sign that the internal structure is failing.
- Engine Overheating: If a hose collapses or has a major leak, your engine won't get enough coolant. This will cause the temperature gauge on your dashboard to rise quickly into the red zone.
- Low Coolant Light: A persistent leak will lower the coolant level in the reservoir, triggering the warning light on your dash.
Known Issues for 2011-2019 Dodge Durango
While there are no widespread formal recalls for radiator hoses on most 2011-2019 Durangos, some owners have reported issues. A common problem is interference between a hose and another engine part, like the fan shroud or a clamp, causing it to rub and eventually wear a hole in the hose. One Customer Satisfaction Notification was issued for a small number of 2022 6.4L models for a coolant hose that could contact the serpentine belt. Always inspect hose routing after installation to ensure there is proper clearance.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hose
When replacing a radiator hose, you don't have to buy the expensive OEM part from the dealer. Quality aftermarket brands offer excellent performance, often at a better price. For your Durango, the main choice is between standard EPDM rubber hoses and premium silicone options.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (Gates, Continental): These brands are often considered top-tier. They are known for excellent material quality and precise fitment that rivals OEM parts. Gates, in particular, is frequently recommended by mechanics and DIYers for its reliability.
- Standard Aftermarket (Dayco): Dayco is a solid, reliable choice that often provides good value. Some users note that Dayco hoses can be slightly thicker, which is neither good nor bad, but fitment is key. In general, both Gates and Dayco are considered good quality choices.
- Specialty Aftermarket (Crown Automotive): Crown specializes in parts for Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler vehicles. They are a good source for direct-fit components that aim to match original specifications.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
If your upper radiator hose has failed, the lower one has been exposed to the same age and conditions. It's smart practice to replace both the upper and lower hoses at the same time, along with the hose clamps. This can save you from having to do the same job twice.
Radiator Hose Replacement Cost for 2011-2019 Dodge Durango
The cost to replace a radiator hose depends on the part price and labor. It's a relatively inexpensive repair that can prevent a very costly engine replacement.
🎬 See how to access the radiator and hoses in this video.| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Radiator Hose | $26 - $98 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $126 - $298 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, engine type (V6 or V8), and the specific hose being replaced. The price range reflects the cost of a single hose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hose do I need for my Durango? Upper or lower?
Your Durango has at least two main radiator hoses. The upper hose connects the top of the engine (usually the thermostat housing 🎬 Learn how to replace the radiator and thermostat together.) to the top of the radiator. The lower hose connects the bottom of the radiator to the engine's water pump. You must identify which hose is leaking or damaged to order the correct replacement. They are not interchangeable.
Are aftermarket hoses as good as OEM for the Dodge Durango?
Yes, high-quality aftermarket brands like Gates and Continental often meet or exceed OEM specifications. They use similar materials like EPDM rubber and are molded to ensure a precise fit. The most important factor is choosing a reputable brand over a generic, unbranded part.
Can I replace a radiator hose myself?
Yes, for someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very feasible DIY job. The main steps involve draining the coolant, using pliers or a special tool to remove the hose clamps, and swapping the old hose for the new one. The most important part is to properly bleed the air out 🎬 Watch a detailed walkthrough for replacing parts on the 3.6L engine. of the cooling system when you refill the coolant.
Should I replace my hose clamps too?
It is highly recommended. The original spring-style clamps can lose tension over time, leading to leaks. New worm-gear or spring-style clamps are inexpensive and ensure a tight seal on your new hoses. Do not use cheap hardware store clamps, as they can cut into the hose.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 55038026AI 55038026AH 55038026AG 55038026AF 55038026AE 55038026AD 68244092AA
Hoses are engine-specific (3.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 6.4L V8) and position-specific (Upper/Inlet, Lower/Outlet). Most are made from molded EPDM rubber to match the original shape and fit.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Dodge Durango:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Durango's Radiator Hose Failing?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Radiator Hose:
- Known Issues for 2011-2019 Dodge Durango
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hose
- Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
- Radiator Hose Replacement Cost for 2011-2019 Dodge Durango
- Frequently Asked Questions
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