Even modern vehicles still rely heavily on hoses to transport vital fluids between critical components. In addition to engine oil, most vehicles also rely on coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission oil. Plumbing for these fluids is essential to get them where they need to go, but it's also an area ripe for failure.

Many of the hoses in your car use synthetic rubber, although some manufacturers may use plastic or other materials for certain fluids. Unfortunately, most of these materials can weaken over time, leading to everything from minor leaks to catastrophic failures. Here are just three hose failures you're likely to encounter as your vehicle ages.

1. Radiator Hose Leaks

Your coolant system is a closed-loop between the engine block and the radiator. Coolant picks up heat in the engine block and transfers it to the radiator, where the coils help release it into the atmosphere before sending it through the system again. Although there are usually more details (such as your cabin heater core), this loop is the most critical part of the system.

Most radiators include an upper hose for returning hot coolant to the radiator and a lower hose for sending it to the engine block. Older hoses often crack, allowing for small coolant leaks. Many vehicles also use plastic fittings or connectors near the radiator, which can degrade and leak over time. Since overheating can cause significant engine damage, it's essential to repair these leaks as soon as you can.

2. Power Steering Hose Leaks

Although fully electric systems are becoming more common, most cars on the road still use hydraulic power steering systems. This design uses hydraulic pressure to turn your car as you move the wheel, and it relies on a pump to move fluid through the system. In a basic setup, one hose delivers hydraulic fluid to the steering rack, and another returns it to the pump.

As with many hoses, failures typically occur at the fittings. In some cases, it's only necessary to replace a hose clamp to stop the leak. In more severe cases, you'll need to replace the entire hose. Steering fluid leaks can increase the effort required to turn the car and, if the level falls low enough, can cause damage to the pump.

3. Brake Hose Degradation

Your car's brake system uses both hard lines and soft hoses to deliver hydraulic fluid to the brakes. While hard lines make up most of each braking circuit, a soft hose is necessary to carry it the last few feet. This hose provides flexibility as the car travels over bumps and rough roads. While hard line leaks are uncommon, brake hoses can often degrade and impact braking performance.

An unaddressed issue with your brake hoses can reduce your stopping power, cause your calipers to seize, or even leak and result in a total loss of braking on one circuit. Since these hoses are part of a critical safety feature, routine inspections are essential.

For more information on automotive repair, contact a professional near you.