While it may be small in size (fits in the palm of your hand), the job it performs is crucial for your engine to stay within a safe operating temperature. This is the absolute best way to ensure it stays running strong. When coolant temperature rises to the engine's ideal, the thermostat valve opens to send coolant through the radiator in order to maintain that temperature. These signs can occur if: If you notice any of these symptoms, it means that your car needs thermostat repair. As soon as the engine warms up, the valves open wide, allowing the coolant to dissipate the retained heat in the radiator. Car engines need an optimal temperature range, which is 194°F or 90°C, to function effectively. An engine cooling system thermostat is designed to stop the flow of coolant in the cooling system when the engine is cold, this is done to help the engine warm up to optimum operating temperature which improves efficiency and emissions output. It is a fire hazard that can lead to irremediable damage to the car engine. It opens and closes based on the temperature. Its job is to block the flow of coolant to the radiator until the engine has warmed up. A car thermostat regulates the flow of coolant through the engine and is an incredibly important player in the operation of your vehicle’s engine. Most liquid-cooled engines are supplied with a thermostat, that measures about 2 inches in diameter, positioned between the engine and the radiator. Of course, everybody knows that an overheating engine is bad news but most people probably don't realise that engines HATE the cold. Show More. It features a unique type of wax that acts as an expanding agent. The Thermostat in Your Car: A cars thermostat is a simple device that is basically a thermometer that is attached to a switch that turns on your heater. This can hinder the engine from reaching its optimal operating temp, reducing things like engine power and fuel economy. Easy guide on how an automotive cooling system thermostat works, this information pertains to most vehicles. A thermostat is a small device that is positioned in between the car engine and radiator. Optional Information: 2004 Nissan mixima 3.5. There are numerous components housed in a car's engine that are crucial for its proper operation. replace thermostatwhat temp thermostatis my thermostat badbad thermostat The compressor connects to the crankshaft via a drive belt. Satisfied Customers: 919. The primary valve of the thermostat remains closed, but the by-pass valve is opened, keeping the coolant circulating in the engine. How Does it Work? When you first start the car it should be closed, essentially blocking the water/coolant from traversing the radiator thus allowing the engine to reach its optimum temperature as quickly as possible. To do this you will have to fit a new transmitter unit so that the gauge can be tested against a transmitter unit that is known to work properly. Imagine going out for a long hike on a hot summer day only to find out you didn’t bring any water. A car engine produces a lot of heat as it runs, water (coolant) is circulated around the engine to help keep it cool. How does the thermostat in a car's cooling system work? You may hear the phrase “the thermostat was stuck open or closed.” When the engine has been sitting for a while and is not warm, the thermostat will be closed. Finally, we will provide a step-by-step guide explaining how to check a car thermostat. However, not on all modern cars it is realized. This happens when the thermostat gets stuck closed, not allowing hot coolant to cool down in the radiator. Depending on how savvy you are under the hood of a car, you may be able to replace it yourself for between $50-$150. The thermostat in most cars is about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. If the thermostat is not opening/closing as it should, the coolant flowing out of the engine can’t be regulated. 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