It would be great if this replacement hose were sent in three parts as it needs to be disassembled to fit the Dyson DC17. But I jumped onto YouTube and found a video to follow and did everything step by step following the instructions. It takes a little patience and a little strength, but overall it's very doable. And that's part of the cost of repairing a vacuum cleaner. As for the hose itself, I can't tell it apart from the original. The appearance of the hose and the two parts that are removed and then reattached are identical. I'm a very happy girl. I love my Dyson and will not change it unless absolutely necessary. For many years of grout cleaning!