

#Coolant thermostat check engine light full#
If it sticks in the open position, the coolant will constantly circulate through the engine and radiator, which can prevent the engine from reaching full operating temperature (and full efficiency) and reduce heat output from the climate system.Īmong the signs that a thermostat isn’t working are an engine that overheats or runs hotter than usual, or a cabin heater that fails to produce sufficient warm air. If it sticks in the closed position, that traps coolant in the engine so that it overheats. If you need to have your radiator or any gaskets or hoses replaced in your cooling system, you may also want to ask your mechanic about whether you should replace your thermostat at the same time.Īside from this type of preventive maintenance, a thermostat doesn’t need to be replaced unless it stops opening and closing when it’s supposed to. That’s particularly true if the upper hose is being removed, as that’s where many thermostats are located. However, if you’re having other cooling system maintenance performed, such as replacing the coolant and/or radiator hoses on a vehicle that’s been in service for several years, it could be a good idea to replace the thermostat at the same time for peace of mind. Indeed, if it appears to be working, there probably isn’t a need for a new thermostat. When to Replace Your Thermostatīecause they are so simple, thermostats generally do not go bad with age. The valve is opened and closed with a spring, piston or another thermally controlled device. This ensures that the coolant in your engine stays within a specific temperature range regardless of the outside temperature. Its job is to regulate the amount of coolant that is recirculated back into the engine and how much is cooled via the radiator prior to being recirculated. It’s a valve located in your car’s cooling system. Your car’s thermostat is a vital component that is actually pretty simple. Related: Air-Conditioner Condenser: What You Need to Know What Does a Thermostat Do? Thermostats generally last for years - even for the lifetime of a vehicle - so why bother changing it? Does a car thermostat need to be changed as part of normal maintenance? Let’s take a closer look. Unless an engine overheats or fails to reach normal operating temperature after being driven for several miles, the thermostat that regulates the flow of coolant is probably working properly. If that doesnt solve your CEL.(might have to clear codes with vag-com or similar devices) then you could have a faulty Thermostat (like me) but you should Vag-Com your car and check what the computer thinks your coolant temp is.CARS.COM - A car thermostat is responsible for preventing your engine from overheating. I usually put some Di-electric grease on the connections too. Put the new retainer clip on and plug the connector back in. Pull the rag out and insert the new sensor ( nothing to line up, just try to get it straight as its a tighter fit with the new o-ring). rubber o-ring on the new one and you know where the old o-ring is. Stuff the hole with a rag and make sure you got the new one looking the same as the old i.e. Pull that off and pull the sensor straight back, there should be a rubber O-ring on the end of it. There is a black plastic clip that hold it in. but you gotta be fast or you loose alot of coolant! the Green one is what you want.Ĭoolant Temp Sensors (Green, part #059919501A) are like $25 at dealerserships and most parts stores. if its black that is most likely the problem. just behind the 3 glowplugs for the cooland on the r/h side of the engine ( if your standing facing your engine, hood up ) You should see a wire connection going to it, unplug it (just like the MAF connector ) and see what colour your sensor is.
