Thermostat malfunctions

Thermostat does not open

Cause: jammed or «stuck» valve plate.

signs: The temperature display is already past the red mark, but the heatsink still feels cold to the touch.

Possible consequences: Driving with the thermostat closed can cause severe engine damage. Possible burnout of the cylinder head gasket, deformation of the cylinder head or the appearance of cracks on it

Remedy: wait until the engine has cooled down, unscrew the thermostat housing and remove the thermostat. If you drive for a while without a thermostat, it won't harm your engine.

Thermostat does not close completely

Cause: There is a foreign object in the thermostat.

signs: After starting a cold engine, the radiator immediately becomes as warm as, for example, the thermostat housing. The interior of the car heats up slowly.

Possible consequences: If the engine does not reach operating temperature, the wear of its parts increases.

Remedy: Replace thermostat.