Thermostats

Bad or wrong thermostats are a huge cause of poor gas mileage and poor engine performance. 
A thermostat is a valve located in the engine that prevents the engine coolant from circulating through the radiator until the engine temperature reaches a predetermined temperature, about 190 - 198 degrees Fahrenheit on most all cars. After this temperature is reached the thermostat attempts to keep the coolant flow to the radiator regulated to maintain proper temperatures. A tired thermostat won't maintain proper temperatures and that can cause many problems, such as poor mileage, pinging, hesitation and surging as well as engine damage. Although they can stick closed and cause overheating, the most common failure is opening too soon or sticking open and causing the engine to run too cool.
This can start happening after two years, so our recommendation is to replace them every 2 - 3 years to help prevent more expensive repairs.

When purchasing one, make sure you ask for the manufactures recommended temperature, usually
around 195 degrees. This is not a time to try and save a few bucks, make sure you buy a quality
or original manufacture part, as this inexpensive part can cost a lot if it fails.
Many times we have found people using the wrong temperature because of a recommendation from
someone at a parts counter or a "friend".

 

Integrity, Quality and Exceptional Service.

Wayne's Garage
27 E 27th in Eugene, Oregon
333 Q Street in Springfield, Oregon