How to Change a Car Thermostat

Summary: The thermostat in your car regulates the temperature of the engine. If it gets stuck closed, then the engine can overheat, potentially damaging the head gasket and other key engine components. If it gets stuck open, your engine will run cooler and your heater will not work. Either way, it's a good idea to fix a damaged thermostat right away in order to keep your car in good running order.

In this free auto repair video, you will learn how to replace a car's thermostat. Our experienced mechanic will tell you how to diagnose a thermostat problem, then demonstrate how to drain your coolant and remove parts of the coolant system, such as the serpentine belt and thermostat housing in order to gain access to the thermostat. Then you will learn how to remove the faulty thermostat and replace it, then watch detailed videos how to put everything back together again.