What are the reasons why the thermostat does not open?
2 Answers
The reasons why the thermostat does not open: 1. The water temperature is not high enough; 2. The water channel is blocked; 3. The radiator is frozen; 4. Insufficient engine coolant or air in the system; 5. Quality issues or damage to the thermostat itself; 6. The temperature has not reached the opening threshold. The thermostat automatically adjusts the amount of water entering the radiator based on the coolant temperature, changing the water circulation range to regulate the cooling system's heat dissipation capacity, ensuring the engine operates within an appropriate temperature range. The main function of the thermostat is to prevent the engine from becoming too cold. After the engine is running normally, in winter, without a thermostat, the engine temperature might drop too low. In such cases, the engine temporarily stops the water circulation to ensure the temperature does not become excessively low.
I previously encountered a thermostat that wouldn't open while driving, most likely due to internal sticking. Rust or contaminants accumulated in the coolant, causing the valve core to stick and remain closed, resulting in rapid engine temperature rise. If not detected in time, the dashboard warning light would come on, potentially damaging the cylinder head gasket, which would be troublesome to repair. It's recommended to regularly change the coolant to prevent dirt buildup. When replacing the thermostat, it's best to flush the entire cooling system—it doesn't cost much but can save major headaches. Don't delay; have a mechanic address it promptly. Engine overheating is no small matter.
