* Engine Overheating: The thermostat regulates coolant flow to prevent the engine from overheating. Without it, the engine will take much longer to reach operating temperature, and may never reach it in cold weather. This can lead to incomplete combustion, increased wear, and eventual catastrophic failure.
* Poor Fuel Economy: An engine that never reaches its optimal operating temperature will run inefficiently, leading to lower fuel economy.
* Increased Wear and Tear: Cold engine operation causes increased wear on engine components, especially during startup.
While it might seem like the engine will simply run cooler, the lack of proper temperature regulation is far more detrimental to its long-term health and performance. The thermostat is a crucial component for proper engine operation. Running without it is a recipe for engine damage.
