Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Radiator hose

2017 Subaru Forester radiator hose — purpose, service and replacement

Yes, a radiator hose is absolutely used on the 2017 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s official Forester (SJ) Service Manual (Cooling section) specifies upper and lower radiator hoses for both the 2.5i FB25 and 2.0XT FA20DIT engines, and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue lists distinct upper and lower hose assemblies and clamps for this model year. Major aftermarket fitment guides (e.g., Gates Australia application data) also catalogue dedicated upper and lower radiator hoses for the 2017 Forester, confirming the part’s relevance.

The radiator hose pair is the workhorse of the cooling system. The upper hose carries hot coolant from the engine to the radiator, the lower hose returns cooled coolant back to the water pump. On turbo models, the hoses work even harder thanks to higher thermal loads. Built from heat- and pressure-resistant EPDM rubber, they flex with engine movement while maintaining a tight seal under pressure so the boxer motor can hold steady operating temps in Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

For owners looking after a 2017 Forester, hose care is simple and worth doing at every service under the bonnet.

• Inspect every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service for soft spots, swelling near clamps, cracks or glazing, oil contamination, dried coolant crust, and weeping at the ends.
• Squeeze-test when the engine is completely cold, a hose that feels mushy or stays flattened is due for replacement.
• Keep to correct coolant: Subaru Super Coolant (blue), mixed as specified. Don’t mix types.
• Consider age: while Subaru bases hose replacement on condition, many techs proactively replace hoses at around 6–10 years or 100,000–160,000 km, whichever comes first.

When replacing, it’s good practice to do the upper and lower as a pair and fit new quality clamps. Work only on a cold engine, catch and recycle old coolant, and clean the radiator neck and fittings before sliding on the new hoses. Position clamps just behind the bead, align the hose without twist, and avoid over-tightening worm-drive clamps—constant-tension (spring) clamps are great for maintaining seal as temperatures swing. Refill with the correct coolant, run the engine with the heater on hot to purge air, gently squeeze the upper hose to help burp bubbles, and top up at the reservoir once cool. After a few days or a few hundred kilometres, recheck the level and clamp seats. A healthy pair of hoses helps the Forester tow, tour, and commute without temperature tantrums.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Forester radiator hoses

Where are the upper and lower radiator hoses on a 2017 Subaru Forester?
Under the bonnet, the upper hose runs from the engine outlet across to the top of the radiator. The lower hose connects the bottom of the radiator to the water pump inlet near the thermostat housing. On turbo (XT) models, expect additional coolant hoses around the turbo and oil cooler areas.

How often should the radiator hoses be replaced?
Subaru focuses on condition rather than a strict kilometre interval. As a guide, inspect at every service and plan replacement around 6–10 years or 100,000–160,000 km, earlier if there’s any softness, cracking, swelling, leaks, or overheating. Given a 2017 model’s age, many owners choose to refresh hoses proactively.

What coolant should be used after hose replacement?
Use Subaru Super Coolant (blue) to the correct mix ratio stated in the owner’s manual. It’s long-life and formulated to protect the Forester’s alloy components. Avoid mixing different coolant types and always bleed the system of air after refilling.