What to Do If the Thermostat Is Broken?

[Candice]

If the thermostat is broken, it simply needs to be replaced. The thermostat is part of the cooling system and is a device that controls the coolant flow between the large and small circulation loops. The thermostat automatically adjusts the amount of water 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 the appropriate temperature range. The thermostat must maintain good technical condition; otherwise, it can severely affect the engine's normal operation. For example, if the main valve of the thermostat opens too late, it can cause the engine to overheat. Conversely, if the main valve opens too early, it prolongs the engine's warm-up time, resulting in the engine running too cold.

[OBrynlee]

If the thermostat in my car accidentally breaks, it's not something to take lightly, as it directly controls the engine's temperature. Once broken, the coolant won't circulate, and the engine could overheat at any moment, damaging components. Having driven for over five years, I've seen this situation many times. Once the temperature gauge spikes or the engine warning light comes on, you must immediately pull over and turn off the engine. Otherwise, forcing it to run will lead to costly major repairs. After stopping, don't rush to restart—wait for the car to cool down, then call a tow truck to take it to a trusted repair shop for a new thermostat. Actually, this issue is quite common, often caused by aging, low-quality parts, or lack of timely maintenance. That's why I check the cooling system and top up the coolant every quarter—prevention is always better than breaking down on the road, ensuring safety and peace of mind. The new stainless steel one I replaced it with is much more durable, making long trips a lot less worrisome.

[MollyAnn]

I still shudder when recalling the thermostat failure I experienced just a few years after getting my license. That day while driving, the coolant temperature light suddenly flashed red. I immediately pulled over and shut off the engine, with steam billowing from under the hood - quite a frightening sight. After waiting half an hour for the car to cool down, I called a tow truck to take it to the repair shop, where I spent several hundred replacing it with an OEM thermostat. Since then, I always check the coolant temperature and dashboard indicators before trips to catch issues early. The mechanic warned that broken fragments could clog coolant passages and cause bigger failures, so it's safer to call professionals immediately rather than trying to limp home to save money. Having these components inspected during routine maintenance is cost-effective, taking just a few hours. Using quality antifreeze coolant also makes the car run much smoother.

[Freddy]

I'm used to fixing my own car. When the thermostat breaks, I don't panic. I park the car safely, open the hood, and check the cooling system for any cracks or leaks. If you're experienced, you can remove the old part and replace it yourself, but you'll need to consult the manual to find the correct model and buy a matching replacement. I've done it twice myself, saving on labor costs, but you must have all the right tools—otherwise, don't attempt it and risk damaging the engine. If the broken part gets stuck in the pipes, you'll need to drain the coolant, flush the system, and refill it. Always test the seals before restarting. Before starting, wear heat-resistant gloves to prevent burns, as the high temperatures pose a real risk. Regular maintenance checks can help avoid these issues altogether.