Radiator hoses/how often should they be changed?
 

'96 Blazer S-10

The last thing I ever want to be facing is a leaking radiator hose if I wind up out in the middle of nowhere.

How often to change them out is confusing, though. Some say they'll last 150k. Others say change them once every 3-5 years. I don't see any evidence of leaking in any of them, but they do feel kind of spongy. They're the original hoses and the first 60k was spent in Los Angeles in incredibly hot summers (often over 110 degrees). In addition, the water pump failed a couple of times, so the hoses have been through some hot times in the old town.

????

If they feel spongy change them. I have run OEM hose for years & up to 180,000 miles. But as an old retired mechanic I do a feel test every so often.

Here is the way i see it...if they have high miles change em. New ones run for less then $20 each..so for about 40 bucks will give you a piece of mind.

Thanks for the comments. I'd rather be safe than sorry so I've decided to buy the hoses ($55) and pay somebody for labor. So not worth the worry.