How to Replace a Thermostat by the Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro

Among auto repairs a driver will commonly face is replacing a bad thermostat.  If you are comfortable performing mechanic work yourself, we can walk you through replacing a bad thermostat yourself.  This will only require about 30 minutes and it is a relatively cheap part to replace. It will be a simple task if you just follow basic auto safety tips and this how to tutorial.

For this job you will want to have a flat head screwdriver, nut driver, or ratchet to use for removing hose clamps and probably the thermostat housing bolts.  Double-check to ensure you have the proper sized tools too.  You will also need to have some work rags as well as a drip pan for the fluids. You might want to have a little extra coolant on hand too. It is important to replace any fluids lost during the repair.  A flat scraper may be useful when removing your old gasket as well.  Most important, be sure you have your new thermostat and gasket.

First Step: Thermostat Removal

First you must locate your thermostat. They are commonly found on top of the radiator hose.  Occasionally we see one mounted on the bottom. Place the drip pan under the work area to catch fluids that leak when you disconnect things. Use the tools listed above to disconnect your top radiator hose from your engine. Once it is loose, remove it from the engine allowing all drips to fall into the pan beneath. Next remove the thermostat housing bolts. These bolts keep your thermostat securely in place.  With the housing bolts free, remove the housing and lift your thermostat out.

Step Two: New Thermostat Installation

Usually you will find pieces of your old gasket sticking around the area you pulled the thermostat from.  Use a work rag to plug the hole and your flat scraper to scrape the entire old gasket away. This area needs to be as clean as possible before you proceed.  Once done, you will need to set the new gasket in place.  Now install your new thermostat.  Be sure that the power unit is pointing to the block.  Once positioned, replace the housing and the housing bolts removed earlier.  Be sure they have a tight fit. Next, reattach the radiator hose and clamp you disconnected in the beginning. Your last step should be to determine how much coolant you need to replace.  Be sure you add enough to bring the water or coolant level back to the area marking full. 

Step Three: Test your work

It really is just that simple!  Replacing a thermostat is cost efficient and easily done right in your parking spot or driveway.  As the proud owner of an auto repair shop owner, I truly pride myself on educating our customers; not only on the repairs I perform, but on ways you can save money by safely performing basic auto repairs at home. If you ever doubt your work, your abilities to perform auto repairs, or you simply don’t have the time, just bring your car or truck to Sanford’s Automotive Service in Columbia, SC.  We offer superior customer service, total customer satisfaction, and we always do it right the first time.