Radiator hose

2005 DODGE NEON
40,000 MILES • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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POLIMPO
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My son was driving and his check engine light came on. He pulled over because when he hit the gas the engine sounded like it was revving.
He had it towed to a shop that said his hose feel off. But they are getting lots of transmission code they said we had to replace the radiator but don't know if the transmission is damaged and told us to take it to a transmission place. Why do we have to replace the radiator if a hose just fell off?
Jul 27, 2019 at 7:45 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Welcome to 2CarPros.

That is a good question. However, I will say that in addition to cooling the engine's coolant, the radiator also has a transmission cooler built in to it. Now, if a hose just fell off, my first questions would be was it a transmission cooler hose? That would make sense since he was experiencing transmission issues.

Next, did the hose just fall off or did the coupler that holds the trans cooling line break? If it broke, then it will need replaced. If it simply fell off, then the original radiator should be fine. I attached a picture of the radiator for this vehicle. I highlighted the transmission cooling lines and where the attach to the radiator so you could have a visual of what I am referring to.

Next, if the trans lost fluid and the vehicle was shut down right away, although there are codes, the transmission may be fine. The codes most likely set as the trans was getting low. So, the hose needs reconnected (to a new or the original radiator based on what happened) and then refill the transmission with the correct fluid. If it works after the repairs, clear the trouble codes and see if any return. You may be lucky.

Take a look at the picture. Let me know if what I described helps. Also, let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Jul 27, 2019 at 8:07 PM
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POLIMPO
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According to the message from the Pep Boys mechanic he said the radiator transmission line blow out of the radiator. The car never stalled or really overheated, my son go nervous and just pulled over. We are not hear the car to take a look. But if I get the car towed home it would cost a pretty penny, so trying to figure if we should have the car moved to a different shop down where it is or tow it home to our normal shop.
Jul 28, 2019 at 7:10 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Welcome back:

If the line blew out, I see no reason for replacing the radiator. The line will need replaced. My biggest concern is the transmission at this point. I'm hoping no permanent damaged was done and once refilled with fluid, it goes back to normal. What I suggest is to call back and ask why the radiator needs replaced if the transmission line is what failed. That doesn't make sense to me.

Let me know if I can help.

Take care,
Joe
Jul 29, 2019 at 6:56 PM