I know its kinda hard to tell from the pics but there is a bunch of dried up, corroded coolant coming out from this hose, the leak is SUPER slow because every few days I see a spot of coolant on the garage floor and every 2 weeks I have to put a little bit of anti freeze in the reservoir.

Iv also noticed that, on cold days, the car doesnt like to warm up all the way, even after a 20 min freeway drive. The hose the thick "S" looking one that comes from the top radiator and connects to the engine.

What can be causing this? has anyone else had this problem. Im thinking it could be the thermostat, but no overheating on 100+ degree temps, so maybe the water pump? Should I just replace this hose?

 

looks like its time to change out that hose. The hose clamp thats on there, over time tends to bite into the hose. sometimes you can just take the hose off, cut off about an inch or two and put it back on and you're good to go. Oh and another thing, the tstat is on the other hose thats on the other side of the engine.

 

Do you know if I would have to drain the radiator so I can replace the hose?

 

I would replace both hoses. Accountability..... at least you'll know that both hoses have been replaced at the same time. Some guys like to replace the thermostat at the same time too.

You should drain the radiator. Or you'll have a lot of coolant all over the place.

 

its the top hose, there will be leakage , but it would be worst if it were the bottom hose. if you have never replaced any hoses, id try to replace the litle hoses near that area too, or drive around w some spare hose and tools for when one busts or cracks (;

 

I agree totally, however I would also suggest replacing both hoses at the same time as already stated. That way you know you will be good to go. And yes when replacing the lower radiator hose you WILL have to drain the coolant. If you only do the upper hose you dont have to drain the coolant but you may as well, and just replace it with new coolant so everything is new.

 

Yeah, it looks like im going to replace a few hoses and probably the thermostat while im at it and refill it with coolant. Just hope it nothing else I cant really see.
Thanks for the info guys...

 

Mix 50/50with DISTILLED water. tap,spring and drinking water all have minerals that will prove detrimental to your cooling system.