Home » How-to » Engine » Mechanical, Lubrication & Cooling » How to Replace a Thermostat

How to Replace a Thermostat

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
Parts needed: Suggest Parts
Thermostat Gasket Thermostat
Tools needed: Suggest Tools
3/8 in. Drive Ratchet Needle Nose Pliers
(Show)
Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $27.08 parts only
Shop Costs
Est. $134.73 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

Contributor(s) to this Article - Add to this Guide
1
 
Open the hood and locate the vehicle’s radiator. edit step - submit photo
2
 
Remove the vehicle’s radiator cap and use a radiator pressure tester to check for leaks. edit step - submit photo
Pressure test radiator
3
 
Drain out some of the engine coolant in the radiator so the coolant level is below the thermostat housing to prevent leaking when replacing the thermostat. edit step - submit photo
4
 
If necessary, remove the upper radiator hose. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Remove the thermostat housing bolts. edit step - submit photo
Thermostat housing
6
 
Remove the thermostat housing. edit step - submit photo
Thermostat in housing
7
 
Remove the thermostat. edit step - submit photo
8
 
Clean the mounting surfaces. Install the new thermostat as it was removed and always use a new thermostat gasket. edit step - submit photo
9
 
Reinstall thermostat housing and tighten mounting bolts evenly. If applicable, reconnect the upper radiator hose. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Refill the cooling system with coolant. edit step - submit photo
Coolant topped off
11
 
Start the vehicle with the radiator cap off and allow the engine to run for several minutes. This allows the air bubbles to escape the cooling system. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Reinstall the radiator cap. edit step - submit photo
13
 
Run the engine until up to normal operating temperature. Remember to keep an eye on the temperature gauge to prevent overheating. edit step - submit photo
Did you find this guide helpful?   Helpful   Not really
 

Your Garage

We'll align your AutoMD experience to your current vehicle.

Select your vehicle so we can provide exact information, estimates and recommendations that match your vehicle