Common questions

Why is my thermostat not moving in my car?

Why is my thermostat not moving in my car?

The most common cause of faulty temperature readings is a broken coolant temperature sensor (CTS). The part, which is normally located near a vehicle’s thermostat near the base of the radiator (consult your owner’s manual or repair guide) can get gunked up and fail.

What happens to the thermostat when the engine is cold?

The flow of coolant does not cycle through the radiator unless it is hot and needs to be cooled. When an engine is cold, the radiator fluid is cold, so the thermostat is in the closed position. In this position, coolant will only flow in the engine.

What happens if the thermostat on my car is stuck?

The opening and closing of the thermostat at the correct time are critical to maintaining proper engine temperature. In the event the thermostat happens to become “stuck” closed, there is no way for coolant to be circulated through the radiator and eventually back through the engine, which causes extremely hot engine temperatures.

What are the symptoms of a bad thermostat?

The first and potentially most alarming symptom will be the temperature gauge reading high into the red within the first 15 minutes of your vehicle engine running. This is often the very first sign that the thermostat is not functioning properly.

Why does my car temperature keep going cold?

Here is a more detailed list of the most common causes when a temperature gauge stays on cold. The most common problem when it comes to a faulty engine temperature reading is the coolant temperature sensor itself, sending the information to the cluster. Some cars have two temperature sensors, while other car models have one.

What happens if your car thermostat is too hot?

If a car’s engine is too hot, it can actually warp and become damaged. But, when it’s cold, it doesn’t run efficiently. So, it is important to keep the engine at the right temperature, which is where the thermostat comes in.

Here is a more detailed list of the most common causes when a temperature gauge stays on cold. The most common problem when it comes to a faulty engine temperature reading is the coolant temperature sensor itself, sending the information to the cluster. Some cars have two temperature sensors, while other car models have one.

Why is the engine thermostat in the closed position?

The flow of coolant does not cycle through the radiator unless it is hot and needs to be cooled. When an engine is cold, the radiator fluid is cold, so the thermostat is in the closed position. When the engine starts up, and the coolant warms.

Where is the thermostat located on a car?

The thermostat housing is usually under the upper radiator hose. Unbolt the housing and remove the thermostat, using a screwdriver and pliers. Take the thermostat inside. There will generally be a number somewhere on the body, giving it’s opening temperature usually between 160 to 190°F or 70 to 90°C.

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Ruth Doyle