5 Crucial Symptoms Of A Failing Car Thermostat

A car’s engine is its costliest part to repair.  In a 4-cylinder 2,000 rpm engine, 15 explosions take place in each cylinder every second. This produces a large amount of heat. For the engine to be functioning properly, the thermostat must be in perfect condition. If you notice any of these 6 symptoms of a failing thermostat, your car is in immediate need of service. Changing a thermostat in time could prevent irreparable damage to the engine in the long term.

1. Unusually High Temperature Reading
   

   

   A car’s engine could overheat for several reasons, a leak in the cooling system, a blocked conduit in the cooling system or a malfunctioning thermostat. The thermostat opens and closes to allow an appropriate amount of coolant into the engine. A failing thermostat jammed in the closed position will cause the engine to overheat since the flow of coolant will be disrupted.
   If your temperature gauge shows an unusually high reading, it could be a symptom of a failing car thermostat.

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2. Engine Running Inefficiently

   If your car engine is running at a lower capacity than usual, this could be because the thermostat is failing to cut off coolant entry to your engine. The thermostat may be jammed in an open position. Too much coolant might be entering the engine making the temperature much lower than the required level. If this is the case, make sure to get your thermostat checked for damage.

   

3. Peculiar Engine Noises

   

   The lack of coolant flow due to a failing thermostat could also cause rumbling noises as your car engine begins to overheat. You may hear knocking, boiling, rumbling or gurgling sounds from your engine or your radiator. In this case, contact a mechanic immediately.

4. Leaking Coolant

   Your thermostat will fail to function if it is installed wrong. If you see the coolant leaking on or around the mounting surface in your car, take this as a sign to reinstall your thermostat. If the thermostat is new, you may get it reinstalled professionally. Otherwise, you may have to replace the thermostat.

5. Rust & Deposit Build-Up
   

   

   Spotting this symptom requires a certain amount of familiarity with what’s under your car’s hood. If you find your car thermostat is rusty or clogged when checking your engine cooling system, it is a sign that your thermostat might fail soon.
   If the thermostat is rusty or clogged, replace it to prevent damage to the engine. Using the correct coolant for your car can prevent damage to the cooling system and prolong the life of your car’s thermostat.

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   Keep your eyes open for these 6 symptoms of a failing car thermostat. If you have spotted any of these signs in your car, do not delay getting it checked professionally. Thermostats damage is almost impossible to avoid, and it is a good idea to get yours replaced when you service your car at regular intervals. Make sure to check out GoMechanic Spares for premium quality car parts.