Gates 18618 HVAC Heater Hose - Throttle Body Inlet

Gates 18618 Molded Heater Hose Overview

The Gates 18618 molded heater hose is an OEM-style coolant hose built for small-diameter routing in tight engine bays. It is factory-molded to match the shape needed for specific throttle body inlet applications on Kia and Hyundai vehicles, helping maintain proper coolant flow in compact HVAC and cooling system layouts.

Gates Molded Heater Hose products are part of a line focused on formed replacement hoses for modern vehicles with limited underhood space. This hose follows that molded design approach for a precise routing profile in applications such as the Kia Optima, Kia Rondo, and Hyundai Santa Fe.

Key Features

• Gates part number 18618
• Factory-molded, OE-style hose shape
• Small inside diameter: 7 mm (0.29 in) at both ends
• Centerline length: 185 mm (7.3 in)
• Constructed from EPDM and plastic
• Approved for coolant, water, air, and marine applications
• Fits throttle body inlet locations listed below

Detailed Description

This molded heater hose is built for vehicles that require a compact, formed hose path rather than a straight universal hose. The Gates 18618 uses EPDM and plastic construction and is shaped to follow the original routing in tighter engine compartments. It is a direct-fit style replacement for the specified throttle body inlet applications on 2006-2010 Kia Optima, 2007-2012 Kia Rondo, and 2007-2009 Hyundai Santa Fe.

This part cross-references 10618 and 14750S for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Cracked or deteriorated molded heater hose routing
• Coolant seepage at a formed hose section
• Restricted flow caused by a collapsed hose
• Incorrect hose shape in a tight throttle body inlet path
• Replacement needs for Kia Optima, Kia Rondo, and Hyundai Santa Fe cooling system service

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the hose routing, end diameters, and centerline length before installation. This hose is listed for throttle body inlet use, so confirm the vehicle year, make, and model against the fitment data for the exact application. Inspect adjoining clamps, fittings, and mating surfaces for wear or corrosion before installing the replacement hose.

Quality Assurance

Gates manufactures this molded hose as an OE-style replacement for vehicles that require a formed coolant hose profile. The material selection and molded construction support consistent fitment in the listed Kia and Hyundai applications.

• Fits 2006-2010 Kia Optima, Throttle Body Inlet
• Fits 2007-2012 Kia Rondo, Throttle Body Inlet
• Fits 2007-2009 Hyundai Santa Fe, Throttle Body Inlet