A thermostat is a vital component in a car’s cooling system, serving to regulate the amount of coolant that passes from the engine to the cooling radiator.
So how does it work?
When the coolant in the engine gets too hot, the thermostat opens to allow the coolant to flow to the radiator, where it’s cooled down.
When the engine temperature is within the ideal range (195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit), the thermostat stays closed, so the coolant continues to circulate inside the block.
If you are a new car owner or someone who’s not familiar with car components, you may be wondering how long a car’s thermostat lasts.
At Chloe’s Auto Repair, we know the lifespan of various car components thanks to our knowledge and experience in auto repair and car maintenance.
In this article, we will help you understand the lifespan of a car’s thermostat and the warning signs your car’s thermostat may need replacement.
Typically, a car’s thermostat lasts for 10 years, but this duration might change depending on your car’s maintenance routine and other factors.
It is common for a car’s thermostat to stop working much earlier than a decade.
Some of the factors that can affect a thermostat’s lifespan include weather conditions, driving conditions, the overall condition of the engine, and the quality of thermostat parts.
Symptoms of A Bad Car Thermostat
- Odd temperature gauge readings: Your temperature gauge should be in the cold side when you first start your car and gradually creep up as the engine warms up. If the temperature gauge is reading higher or lower than normal, you’ll know there’s a problem with your car’s thermostat. Overheating engine: If your car’s engine overheats, it could mean that a faulty thermostat is preventing the circulation of coolant. Odd engine sounds: Knocking, rumbling, and boiling sounds coming from the engine or radiator could easily be symptoms of a failing thermostat. Check engine light is on: This is an indication that something is wrong with your car’s engine, and a malfunctioning thermostat can turn on the check engine light. Increased fuel consumption: Engine overheating will automatically damage fuel economy, leading to increased fuel consumption. Visible rust on the thermostat: This is an indication that coolant is leaking out of the thermostat. Leaking coolant: If you notice the coolant leaking out of the thermostat’s housing or under the vehicle, there is a big chance that the thermostat is stuck in the closed position or air is getting into your car’s cooling system. It could also point to improper installation. The sooner you have an auto repair shop fix this problem, the better. Erratic changes in temperature inside your vehicle: Thermostat failure will cause your vehicle’s cooling system to function erratically, leading to temperature fluctuations inside the vehicle that aren’t normal.
If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to reach out to a reputable auto repair shop and have your car’s thermostat inspected and replaced.
Call Chloe’s Auto Repair for car thermostat replacement and all of your auto repair needs.
