How much does it cost to fix a stuck open thermostat?
You will pay between $150 and $200 to have your thermostat replaced. The labor should be around $125, while parts should cost you, on average, about $45.
What does it mean when your thermostat is stuck open?
Stuck open means too much coolant is being allocated to the engine, causing the engine to be abnormally cool. If the thermostat is stuck closed, that means not enough fluid is going into the engine and the engine will overheat.
What should I do if my car thermostat is stuck?
Watch the thermometer. When the temperature rises to the number you recorded in step #6, the thermostat will start to open. If it does not, or if it doesn’t open until reaching a different temperature (hotter usually), then the thermostat is bad and should be replaced.
What’s the difference between open and closed the thermostat?
When it’s open, the coolant flows through, lowering the temperature of the engine; when it’s closed, the coolant is blocked until the engine warms up. Engine manufacturers will install a thermostat that opens at the car’s operating temperature (usually either 180 or 212°F, or 82 or 100°C).
Is it bad to run your car with the thermostat open?
Your car is set up to warn you if it’s running too hot and most drivers are aware of the dangers of an overheating engine. However, when your car runs to the cooled, we don’t often consider that to be a problem. In fact, it’s not healthy for your car to be running with a cold engine all the time either.
How do I tell if my thermostat is stuck open?
Checking For the Signs of a Bad Thermostat. If you suspect a faulty thermostat, run a few checks. With the engine cold, remove the radiator cap and start the engine. Look to see if the coolant is swirling/flowing immediately — that means the thermostat’s stuck open.
What happens if the thermostat is stuck open?
When the thermostat is stuck in an open position, there will be a continuous flow of coolant. This results in a low operating temperature, which accelerates the rate of wear of the engine parts and increases emissions from the vehicle.
What are the symptoms if thermostat is stuck open?
Symptoms When the Thermostat Is Stuck Open Low Engine Temperature. If your car is running unusually cool and not building up any heat in the engine, it’s likely that your thermostat is stuck open and is letting No Heater. Your vehicle’s heater works in conjunction with the engine’s cooling system. Reduced Fuel Economy.
What could happen with thermostat stuck open?
When a thermostat is stuck open, coolant constantly circulates and the engine takes longer to reach operating temperature. This affects everything from performance to mileage to emissions and will ultimately take years off the engine’s life. A closed thermostat is a more immediate problem.