How do you change a thermostat on a Ford Taurus?

Changing a thermostat on a Ford Taurus requires draining the coolant, locating the thermostat and flushing the cooling system. Common symptoms of a failed thermostat include overheating and a knocking noise coming from the radiator.

The thermostat regulates the temperature on the Ford Taurus´ engine. When the coolant inside the radiator heats up to a certain degree the thermostat opens, releasing the coolant into the engine. This allows the engine to heat up quickly and efficiently.

When a thermostat fails the engines cooling system will not receive any coolant, which will in turn overheat the engine. When this occurs, the thermostat must be promptly replaced to avoid any serious damage to the engine.

1. Locate the thermostat housing

The thermostat is located at the end of the top radiator hose. Follow the line to locate it.

2. Drain the coolant

Drain the coolant from the cooling system. There is a plug underneath the radiator. Pull it and allow the coolant to drain.

3. Remove the upper hose

The upper radiator hose leads into the thermostat housing. Remove the hose and begin to loosen the housing bolts.

4. Access the thermostat housing

Loosen the housing bolts and remove the unit. Pull the old thermostat from inside and compare it with the replacement. After ensuring the replacement is correct install it.

5. Reinstall upper hose

Connect the housing and upper radiator hose firmly. Refill the coolant and bleed the air out the system. Turn the vehicle on and verify that the cooling system is working.