Andrew Becker (1999) suggests that before assuming a thermostat is the cause of a problem in the cooling system, verify the level of coolant, tension on the drivebelt, and operation of the temperature gauge. When the engine appears to be taking excessive time to warm up, according to the heater output or temperature gauge performance, then it is likely that the thermostat is stuck open and requires a replacement. When the engine is overheating, look at the temperature of the lower
Radiator hose; when the engine is hot, but the radiator hose is not hot, then the thermostat is probably stuck open and coolant cannot escape into the radiator and should be replaced. It is recommended to be careful, because driving without a thermostat can cause emissions, and fuel economy problems. When the lower radiator hose is hot it means that coolant is flowing and the thermostat is open. Disassemble the cable with the negative battery terminal and empty the cooling system, preserving the coolant in the case it is intact. Find the thermostat housing, which is the lower radiator hose to the engine; on older models you may need to remove the air filter housing to access the thermostat and on newer models you may need to remove the battery. To loosen the hose clamp, then unscrew the hose and remove the hose, with pliers where needed. In case of corrosion or deterioration of the thermostat housing cover, change of the cover is necessary. On four-cylinder models, loosen the fasteners and take off the cover of the thermostat housing, ready to spill the coolant. Record the position of the thermostat prior to taking out. In the case of V6, do the same thing, but remember to record the direction of the jiggle valve. Take off the old gasket material off the housing and cover, put on a new rubber gasket on the thermostat and replace the thermostat back in the housing with the spring-end towards the engine. Where necessary, make sure that the jiggle valve is in place. Install the housing cover and bolts to the thermostat housing and tighten it to the desired specified torque. Make sure the clamp is firmly attached,then reconnect the hose to the thermostat housing cover, and fill the cooling system. Last but not least, crank the engine, wait until it has reached normal operating temperature and inspect leaks and normal thermostat functioning.