Note. Recommended interval: every 12,000 km or 6 months.
Attention! Replace the hoses on the air conditioning system at a service station that has the equipment to check and charge the system.
High temperatures in the engine compartment cause rubber and plastic hoses to deteriorate. Periodic inspection should help detect cracks, loose fasteners, local hardening and leaks.
If there are signs of a fluid leak, but you cannot determine the type or exact location of the leak, place a large piece of paper or cloth under the vehicle when storing it. This will help locate the leak and identify the leaking fluid by color. But keep in mind that some leaks can only appear when the engine is running.
If the vacuum hose leaks, air is sucked into the hose (does not come out of the hose), which makes it difficult to detect a leak. You can use an old vacuum hose as a stethoscope to locate a leak. Attach one end of the hose to your ear (don't put it in your ear), the other - to the place of the alleged leak. A hissing sound will be clearly audible at the leak through the hose. Since the test is performed while the engine is running, avoid contact with hot and moving parts.
Pinpointing the exact location of a fuel leak can be difficult until the leak gets larger and noticeable. Fuel begins to evaporate rapidly as soon as it comes into contact with air, especially in a hot engine compartment. Small drops may disappear before you can locate the leak. If there is a suspicion that the fuel leak is in the area of the engine compartment, let the engine cool down and start it with the hood open. As metal parts shrink when cold and rubber hoses loosen during this time, any leaks will become more visible at this time.
Leaks in the cooling system are usually detected by a white coating or rust color in the area of the leak.
Carefully check the radiator and coolant hoses along the entire length. Replace hoses with cracks, tears or signs of ageing. Cracks are easier to find if the hose is pinched. Pay special attention to the hose clamps to the elements of the cooling system. Clamps that are too tight can cause the hose to break or puncture, resulting in leaks in the cooling system. Inspect all hoses and their connections. If leaks are found, replace them or the appropriate gaskets.
On vehicles with automatic transmission, check the condition of the transmission oil heat exchanger hoses.