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Gates 12481 HVAC Heater Hose
Gates Molded Heater Hose for Tesla S
The Gates 12481 molded heater hose is an OEM-style coolant hose built for tight engine and thermal-management routing. It is formed to match smaller, confined spaces and is suitable for coolant, water, and air service, with marine application approval noted by the manufacturer.
Key Features
- Factory-molded shape for precise routing in compact compartments
- EPDM construction for coolant and heater hose service
- Small I.D. design for tight-fitting HVAC and cooling connections
- Used in Tesla S thermal-management routing, including the left-side radiator valve hose assembly
- Gates 12481 molded heater hose for OE-style replacement needs
Product Details
Gates Molded Heater Hose line products are built around formed hose geometry that follows original routing more closely than universal hose. This helps maintain proper fit in crowded spaces where straight hose can kink or place stress on connections. Part number 12481 is a molded EPDM hose with a centerline length of 20 in. (508 mm), an end 1 inside diameter of .709 in. (18 mm), and an end 2 inside diameter of .697 in. (17.7 mm). It is listed for 2014-2016 Tesla S applications, including the 4-way valve to radiator left side hose assembly. This Gates 12481 hose is also cross-referenced to Quality-Built 13481 for the same application.
Common Issues This Hose Can Address
- Cracked or aged heater hose material
- Improper hose routing in tight thermal-management spaces
- Coolant seepage at molded hose connections
- Kinking caused by using a non-formed replacement hose
- Fitment problems on 2014-2016 Tesla S heater and radiator hose routing
Installation Notes and Tips
Verify hose routing against the original part before installation, especially on 2014-2016 Tesla S vehicles. Confirm both end diameters and the molded shape match the existing hose path, and inspect adjoining clamps, valves, and radiator connections for wear before reassembly. Proper alignment is important on formed hoses like the Gates 12481 to avoid twist, stress, or restricted flow.
Quality Assurance
Gates manufactures this molded coolant hose as an OE-style replacement for compact vehicle packaging. The EPDM construction and factory-molded profile support consistent fitment for Tesla S cooling and heater hose service.
| Brand | Gates |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 12481 |
| Position | Molded Heater Hose |
| Material | Epdm |
| End 1 Inside Diameter | .709 |
| End 1 Inside Diameter | 18 |
| End 2 Inside Diameter | .697 |
| End 2 Inside Diameter | 17.7 |
| Centerline Length | 20 |
| Centerline Length | 508 |
| Branch Quantity | 0 |
| 9839 | Yes |
| 9845 | 0 |
This part fits 3 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Drive Type | Liters | Cylinders | Fuel Type | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Tesla | S | AWD | -L | -- | ELECTRIC | N/A | 4-Way Valve To Radiator Left Side Hose Assembly; Molded Heater Hose |
| 2015 | Tesla | S | AWD | -L | -- | ELECTRIC | N/A | 4-Way Valve To Radiator Left Side Hose Assembly; Molded Heater Hose |
| 2014 | Tesla | S | AWD | -L | -- | ELECTRIC | N/A | 4-Way Valve To Radiator Left Side Hose Assembly; Molded Heater Hose |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.