1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Allow it to cool down completely.
2. Open the hood of your car and locate the thermostat housing. It is a circular housing located near the top of the engine, typically near the front or side.
3. Place a drain pan under the thermostat housing to catch any coolant that may spill.
4. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the bolts holding the thermostat housing in place. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the engine compartment.
5. Once the bolts are removed, carefully remove the thermostat housing. The old thermostat should be located inside.
6. Inspect the old thermostat for damage or wear. If the thermostat is stuck in the open or closed position, replace it with a new thermostat.
7. Install the new thermostat in the reverse order of removal. Ensure the thermostat is installed correctly, with the spring facing toward the engine block.
8. Reattach the thermostat housing using the bolts removed earlier. Tighten the bolts securely to prevent leaks.
9. Refill the coolant reservoir with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. Check the coolant level regularly and add more if necessary.
10. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the thermostat housing. If no leaks are detected, turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely.
11. Recheck the coolant level and adjust if necessary.
NOTE:
Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions and precautions for replacing the thermostat. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it is recommended to have it done by a qualified mechanic.