Thermostat hacks car replacement: To start with the basics, a car’s thermostat controls the temperature of your car’s engine.
This is achieved by quickly warming up the engine, but then the pump reacts to the heat by opening the orifice and allowing coolant to flow through the radiator.
A fully functioning thermostat ensures that the engine stays at an optimal temperature while maintaining a comfortable temperature in your car’s interior.
Typically, the thermostat is mounted at the top and located near the water pump on the cylinder head. A hose from the upper radiator directs coolant through the thermostat to the engine.
Although it is an often overlooked and very small mechanical device, the thermostat is crucial for the smooth running of a vehicle.
Continue reading this blog to learn more about how your car’s thermostat works, how to test it, and when it should be replaced.
What does a car thermostat do?
The main function of a car thermostat, just like any other thermostat in buildings, is to control and regulate temperature. In a car, this is the temperature of the engine, which often tends to overheat.
By regulating the flow of coolant to the air-cooled radiator, the thermostat keeps the engine at an optimal temperature to prevent overheating.
This is a wax bead that expands or melts depending on the temperature and activates a rod that regulates the airflow.
A faulty thermostat may not regulate a hot engine and cause the cylinder head to warp, which in turn can result in a blown gasket.
As the temperature rises, the wax melts and acts on the rod, creating a stronger airflow. As the wax hardens and expands in colder temperatures, airflow decreases.
This very simple mechanism is crucial for optimal engine life and quality.
How to Check for a Defective Thermostat
Sometimes thermostats and their associated components fail due to wear and tear. There are several ways to check if a problem is caused by a rotten or defective thermostat. A thermostat basically works in two ways:
• The valve gets stuck closed, trapping coolant in the engine.
• The valve stays open so that coolant can continuously circulate through the engine or radiator.
If, after driving a few miles, you notice that the temperature gauge remains permanently at a low value and the heater in your car no longer emits any heat, then the valve is probably stuck open.
However, if you notice that the temperature gauge on your dashboard is rising rapidly and flashing, the engine is overheating, which could mean that the valve is closed.
However, engine overheating can have many different causes. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to various faults and have your car undergo a vehicle safety inspection.
If you suspect that your thermostat has a problem, here are some ways to check for damage, wear, or malfunction:
How to find your car’s thermostat
First, you need to find the thermostat in your car. It’s usually located near the water pump on the cylinder head.
One way to find it is to locate the hose attached to the engine and follow it until you reach the housing where the thermostat is located. For more information, see your vehicle’s manual.
Start the car and do a test drive
Once you’ve located the snake, it’s worth checking it for immediate damage. Do a quick test by starting the car with the engine cold and then touching the upper radiator hose.
Be careful and avoid the radiator fan.
If the thermostat is working properly, the hose will stay cool for about one to two minutes before quickly heating up.
However, if the hose immediately becomes hot when the engine is started, it’s a sign that the valve is stuck open.
Similarly, if the hose remains cool and does not heat up, the valve will remain stuck closed.
You can also check the hose for any leaks, bulges, or wear. In this case, the problem can be solved by simply replacing the hose.
Vibrations in the car or impacts with other components can damage the hose or pipe. One way to determine if the hose is leaking is to check the fluid level in the expansion tank.
This should be located between an H and an L mark on the side. Make sure you do this when the vehicle’s cooling system has cooled down.
If the fluid level is unusually low after driving, the hose/line may be leaking.
How to Replace a Car Thermostat
You will need a new thermostat before you begin. This must match the model of your car, as it is individual to each car.
Installing an incorrect or poorly fitting thermostat can cause irreparable damage to your vehicle. If you are unsure, please take a look at our services, we will be happy to help you.
Requirements
Before you take on this task, you need to be prepared. So make sure you have the following items to hand:
• Drip pan
• Socket set and wrench
• Flathead screwdriver
• Non-stick sealant
• An old rag
• A nail brush
• Fresh coolant to fill the radiator.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the thermostat
First, you need to prepare the area and make sure the drip pan is under the engine. This will prevent coolant from spilling onto your floor. Then, simply follow these steps:
1. Take your screwdriver and carefully loosen the clamp on the upper radiator hose.
2. Remove the hose from the thermostat housing.
3. Use a socket wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the housing to the engine.
4. Remove the housing from the engine.
5. Simply remove the thermostat and gasket.
6. Clean the area where the thermostat was located with a rag – remove any dirt.
7. Once the surface is smooth and clean, install the new thermostat hacks car replacement.
8. Don’t forget to reinstall the cover by replacing it, tightening the nuts, and tightening the clamp on the upper radiator hose.
9. Add coolant, then test.
Trust the experts
It can be difficult to find the problem at first, but even if you know the thermostat or tube is broken, it can be difficult to find the right thermostat and fix it yourself.
Installing the wrong thermostat or improper tightening can cause serious damage to your car. So take it to your nearest Kwik Fit center as soon as possible.
If you suspect your thermostat is malfunctioning or your engine is overheating for other reasons, take your car in for an inspection.
If you haven’t checked your engine in a while, stop by today for a free vehicle health check for thermostat hacks car replacement.
