How to Determine if a Thermostat is Functioning Properly?

[Sadie]

To determine if a thermostat is functioning properly, you can check the temperature difference between the upper and lower radiator hoses. When the thermostat is closed, the upper hose will be hot while the lower hose remains cold. Once the thermostat opens, the temperatures of both hoses should become nearly equal, indicating that the thermostat is working correctly. The thermostat is a valve that controls the flow path of the coolant, functioning as an automatic temperature-regulating device. It typically contains a temperature-sensing component that opens or closes the flow of air, gas, or liquid through thermal expansion or contraction. The thermostat automatically adjusts the amount of coolant entering the radiator based on the coolant temperature, altering the circulation range to regulate the cooling system's heat dissipation capacity, ensuring the engine operates within an appropriate temperature range.