Can removing the thermostat cause overheating?
TOM: Yes, Lee, removing the thermostat does make the car run cooler. But you should never, ever do it. When the engine is too cool, the thermostat closes and stops the coolant from flowing through the radiator, so the engine heats back up.
Should you replace thermostat if car overheats?
If your vehicle has ever overheated, you will likely need to get a new thermostat. Overheating can cause serious damage to the valve as well as the thermostat housing and the hoses and gaskets that are a part of your car’s cooling system.
What to do if your Toyota Camry overheats?
Learn if it’s a simple fix or time to seek out a trusted technician. Not your vehicle? Why Is My Car Overheating? What are common reasons my Toyota Camry overheats? While there are a variety of reasons your Toyota Camry is overheating, the most common 3 are a coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.), the radiator fan, or a failed thermostat.
What does the thermostat on a Toyota Camry do?
A thermostat is basically a valve that interrupts the flow of coolant through the engine when the car is cold. This lack of coolant flow allows for the engine to quickly reach operating temperature. As the coolant heats up, the thermostat will open to allow full flow of the coolant through the cooling system.
What to do if your Toyota radiator is overheating?
A closed thermostat will not allow enough coolant to reach the engine to cool it. If you’re only overheating on the highway, you might just replace the thermostat (especially if you’re driving an older vehicle). Over time, radiators can become clogged or damaged.
Can a stuck thermostat cause a car to overheat?
A stuck closed thermostat will cause overheating issues because the coolant cannot circulate through the engine. In either case, the thermostat should be replaced. There is really no way to test a faulty thermostat besides removing it from the car. That being said, a thermostat can be quickly and easily replaced.