What are the effects of not installing a thermostat in a car?
3 Answers
The effects of not installing a thermostat in a car are, first and foremost, the most obvious sign that the interior heating will take a very, very long time to warm up. Secondly, the engine operating at low temperatures for extended periods will inevitably affect fuel atomization, leading to increased fuel consumption, and will also cause certain wear and tear on the engine's moving parts. Below is an extended explanation: The main purpose of installing a thermostat in an engine is to allow the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature as quickly as possible, reduce engine wear, improve fuel atomization efficiency, and at the same time, enhance the speed at which the interior heating system warms up the cabin.
I've personally seen many car owners remove the thermostat, thinking it would simplify things, but over time, the engine remains cold and never reaches the optimal operating temperature. Especially in winter, starting becomes difficult, and warming up the car is frustratingly slow. I've driven several cars without thermostats and noticed fuel consumption skyrocketing, requiring significantly more gas. The issue is that at low temperatures, engine oil becomes too viscous, leading to inadequate lubrication, which accelerates wear on pistons and cylinder walls. Sometimes, during high-speed driving, if the cooling system circulation is poor, it can even cause localized overheating of certain components, posing serious safety risks. Not to mention, low-temperature engine operation results in incomplete combustion, leading to excessive emissions and environmental pollution. My advice is simple—don't mess with it. Keep the thermostat installed to maintain the engine at around 90°C for smooth, efficient, and cost-effective driving.
From a fuel-saving perspective, not installing a thermostat is practically a money-burning machine. I once tested it—without it, the engine kept operating in the low-temperature zone, resulting in poor combustion efficiency and an extra 1-2 liters per 100 kilometers in fuel consumption. With today's high fuel prices, wasting hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually is pure folly. A cold engine also emits more harmful gases, which is environmentally unfriendly, and I always worry about the ecological impact while driving. Additionally, engine oil flows poorly when cold, increasing component wear—sooner or later, repair bills will come knocking. After simply reinstalling the thermostat, my car warmed up faster and ran more smoothly, saving me enough on fuel each month for a nice meal. Remember, maintaining the ideal temperature is crucial for overall cost-efficiency.
