Car radiator Thermostat: Lifespan & Warning Signs for Replacement

Every vehicle has a thermostat that monitors and regulates the temperature of the coolant in your car’s engine. It is a metal valve that opens and closes based on the temperature and determines the behaviour of the coolant. Since the thermostat keeps working for as long as the car is on, it can wear out eventually. This brings us to an important question – how long does a car radiator thermostat last and when should you replace it?

There is not an exact mileage at which a car thermostat fails. However, you need to keep an eye on its function to ensure optimum performance of your vehicle. Let’s find out how long a thermostat lasts along with the signs of a faulty car thermostat.

How long does a car radiator thermostat last?

There is not a set time for the car radiator to stop working. 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. 

Car coolant circulates through the car when the thermostat is open

Some factors that induce an early thermostat failure include harsh weather, rough driving, bad engine or thermostat parts. If the thermostat becomes faulty, you should either get it checked or replace it at the earliest. An unchecked failing thermostat can overheat the engine at a fast pace degrading the engine quality and efficiency as well. Therefore, it is necessary to set car maintenance schedules to extend the life span of car parts.

Signs of a faulty car thermostat

Given below are a few symptoms of a bad car radiator thermostat that you need to watch out for: 

• If the check engine light is on for your vehicle, there is definitely some issue with your car engine. You will need a car mechanic to read the codes and find out the problem. A failing thermostat can turn on this light for sure. 
• If your car engine overheats, it is an indication of a faulty thermostat preventing the circulation of the coolant. 
• On the other hand, a cold engine is also a sign of a bad thermostat. It means your heater is not working and the thermostat may be the culprit here. 

Car engine check light is switched on when the thermostat is not functioning properly

If your car has faulty parts such as a bad thermostat you can replace it with a new one. Check out different car accessories for sale for quick replacements at affordable rates.

FAQs

When should I replace the thermostat radiator in my car?

Although a thermostat can last a decade, it’s a good idea to replace it roughly as often as you replace your temperature control systems. Every time you replace your air conditioner or heater, you should install a new thermostat as well.

Can you drive with a faulty thermostat?

It is not a good idea to drive your car without a working thermostat. If your thermostat gets stuck in the closed position, it will cause your engine to overheat and make driving your car impossible.

How do you check a car thermostat?

Start your car’s engine and allow it to idle. Look through the radiator filler neck to see if the coolant flows. At this time, it should not be flowing as your car has not reached the operating temperature to cause the thermostat to open. If the coolant is flowing, it means the thermostat valve is open.

Now that you know how long a car radiator thermostat lasts along with the warning signs of a faulty one, you can take better care of your vehicle. If your current car has other major faults that cause frequent overheating and you are interested in replacing your car, check out these used cars for sale in the UAE. 

For more information on car parts and their functioning, stay tuned to the UAE’s top blog.