Gates 18685 HVAC Heater Hose - Throttle Body Inlet

Gates 18685 Molded Heater Hose Overview

The Gates 18685 molded heater hose is an OEM-style coolant hose built for tight engine bays where a formed routing path matters. It is made from EPDM and uses a small 8 mm inside diameter at both ends with a 26 in. centerline length for a precise fit.

Compatible with 2013-2017 Subaru BRZ throttle body inlet and 2013-2016 Scion FR-S throttle body inlet applications, this molded hose is also suitable for coolant, water, and air service. The Gates Molded Heater Hose line focuses on factory-shaped replacement hoses for modern compact engine compartments.

Key Features

• Gates part number 18685
• Factory-molded, OE-style hose shape
• EPDM construction for coolant-system service
• 8 mm inside diameter at both ends
• 26 in. centerline length for formed routing
• Approved for marine applications
• Used in coolant, water, and air applications

Detailed Description

Gates 18685 is a molded heater hose designed to follow the original routing used in compact engine compartments. Its formed shape helps maintain proper hose alignment at the throttle body inlet, which is important in applications such as the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S. If you are searching for a molded heater hose for 2013-2017 Subaru BRZ throttle body inlet service or a replacement hose for 2013-2016 Scion FR-S throttle body inlet service, this part matches those vehicle-specific needs.

This hose cross-references Gates 10685 and 16630M for the same application.

Common Problems This Hose Can Address

• Cracked or aged coolant hose material
• Improper hose routing in tight engine spaces
• Leaks at a throttle body inlet hose connection
• Heat-related hose deformation
• Replacement needs for molded coolant, water, or air lines

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the hose routing, end diameters, and centerline length before installation. Confirm the throttle body inlet application on your Subaru BRZ or Scion FR-S and compare the original hose shape to the molded profile of Gates 18685. Inspect adjoining fittings and clamps for wear before reassembly.

Quality Assurance

Gates manufactures this molded heater hose as an OE-style replacement for factory-fit service. The EPDM construction and molded design support consistent fitment in applications that require a shaped hose path.