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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:
Thermostat Gasket Thermostat
Tools needed:
3/8 in. Drive Ratchet Needle Nose Pliers
(Show)
Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $28.11 parts only Shop Costs
Est. $135.94 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
Open the hood and locate the vehicle’s radiator.
2
 
Remove the vehicle’s radiator cap and use a radiator pressure tester to check for leaks.
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.
4
 
If necessary, remove the upper radiator hose.
5
 
Remove the thermostat housing bolts.
Thermostat housing
6
 
Remove the thermostat housing.
Thermostat in housing
7
 
Remove the thermostat.
8
 
Clean the mounting surfaces. Install the new thermostat as it was removed and always use a new thermostat gasket.
9
 
Reinstall thermostat housing and tighten mounting bolts evenly. If applicable, reconnect the upper radiator hose.
10
 
Refill the cooling system with coolant.
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.
12
 
Reinstall the radiator cap.
13
 
Run the engine until up to normal operating temperature. Remember to keep an eye on the temperature gauge to prevent overheating.
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