However, most car experts recommend car thermostat replacement after 10 years. However, this is an optimistic number. Thermostats are more likely to stop working much earlier than a decade. Some factors that induce an early thermostat failure include harsh weather, rough driving, bad engine or thermostat parts.
If you drive with a bad thermostat, your car could overheat, causing severe and expensive engine damage. And while it's technically possible to drive without a thermostat, we don't recommend it. Your car will not reach an acceptable operating temperature, resulting in higher fuel consumption and excessive engine wear.
In most cases, installing a new thermostat is a relatively simple do-it-yourself project that can result in improved comfort and convenience and one that can help you save energy.
High temperature readings
The main symptoms of a failing thermostat are related to engine overheating. It can be easily noticed because the temperature gauge in the vehicle will probably read unusually high. This can be caused by the valves being stuck in a closed position.
Yes, many smart thermostats are designed for DIY installation, and manufacturers typically provide step-by-step guides and videos. However, if your HVAC system is older or lacks proper wiring (like a C-wire), the installation might become more complex, and you may need professional help.
Uneven Heating
Inconsistent heating patterns often point to thermostat inaccuracies, as the device struggles to regulate the temperature evenly. On the other hand if the entire house feels uniformly cold then the furnace might be the problem.
A car thermostat is designed to last a long time – typically around 100,000 miles or 10 years. However, various factors can impact its lifespan. First, driving conditions play a role. If you regularly drive in hot weather or stop-and-go traffic, your thermostat may suffer additional stress.
Car thermostat replacement time is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the make of the car. It will cost you around $190 to $350, including labor. Thermostat repairs usually take more time, requiring extra time to diagnose and analyze the vehicle's thermostat. It can take up to 2 hours.
Luckily, it only takes a few minutes and a couple of tools to change your thermostat yourself. Our guide will show you how to remove the bad thermostat and replace it with a new one!
If your thermostat has fresh batteries but suddenly lacks power, flashes, or isn't responsive to adjustments, it may need replacement. If resetting the thermostat doesn't resolve the problem, you may have wiring problems or faulty components causing your thermostat to not turn on.
Your AC and Heater Won't Start
If the thermostat's wiring becomes loose, it can break connections with your home heating and cooling appliances. This means that the thermostat isn't controlling the air conditioner or the heater.
Take your radiator cap off and note the coolant level. idle the vehicle until it's hot enough for the fans to kick on, maybe 10-15mins depending. When they do, you can look down in your radiator and see the coolant level drop and probably see it circulating as well.
Signs of a Bad Thermostat
If there's no change in your home's temperature when you adjust the temperature, or the display is unlit or unresponsive, your thermostat may be broken, or the batteries need replacing.
How long does it take to replace a car thermostat? It depends on access on the car. Some are two bolts and easily accessible. Others have very limited space and require taking a lot of other parts off, An hour on an easy car with refilling coolant and running it to operating temperature, checking coolant.
While there is a small chance that there is an issue with the running temperature of your engine, by far the most common issue with trouble code P0128 is a faulty thermostat. The exact location of the thermostat and issues related to a damaged thermostat may vary depending on your vehicle.