1. Gather the tools and materials you need.
- - New thermostat.
- - Thermostat housing gasket.
- - Coolant.
- - O-ring for the coolant outlet pipe.
- - A set of wrenches and sockets.
- - A flat-head screwdriver.
- - A funnel.
- - A bucket or container to catch coolant.
2. Prepare your vehicle.
- - Turn off the engine, allow your car cool down.
- - Open the hood of your vehicle.
- - Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
3. Remove the old thermostat.
- - Locate the thermostat housing. It's usually located near the top of the engine, typically secured by a few screws or bolts.
- - Place a bucket or container underneath the thermostat housing to catch any coolant that may spill.
- - Using a flat-head screwdriver or a socket, loosen and remove the screws or bolts that hold the thermostat housing in place.
- - Remove the thermostat housing and lift out the old thermostat.
4. Clean the thermostat housing.
- - Use a clean rag to wipe away any old gasket material or debris from the thermostat housing.
5. Install the new thermostat.
- - Place the new thermostat in the thermostat housing.
- - Make sure the thermostat is seated correctly and the gasket is in place.
- - Reinstall the thermostat housing and tighten the screws or bolts.
6. Replace the coolant outlet pipe O-ring.
- - Locate the coolant outlet pipe and remove the old O-ring.
- - Install the new O-ring on the coolant outlet pipe and tighten the bolt or clip that secures it.
7. Refill the coolant.
- - Use the funnel, pour coolant into the coolant reservoir, filling until the coolant level is between the full and low marks.
8. Connect the battery and start the engine.
- - Start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes until it reaches operating temperature.
- - Check for any leaks around the thermostat housing or coolant outlet pipe.
- - If there are no leaks, turn off the engine and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
9. Test the thermostat.
- - Ensure engine is cool and fill coolant to its appropriate level.
- - Start engine and allow to reach normal operating temperature.
- - Upper radiator hose should be cool and lower radiator should gradually get warmer until both hoses are hot to the touch.
