My thermostat went out on me yesterday on a 2006 Acura RL. Symptoms were overheating temp gauge, didnt drive far turned back around and went home opened the hood and check for leaks. I then realized that the lower radiator hose was still very cold compared to the top hose and i can hear coolant boiling from the radiator. My main question is are there any big differences between OEM and Aftermarket brands? I called my local Acura dealer and they are asking $70 for a Oem thermostat, and I am also looking at a Gates brand thermostat from rockauto for about $17. I would appreciate suggestions and feedback If any of you guys have replaced thermostat recently or in the past and what did you guys ended up going with.

 

gates is the OEM brand, I'd be okay going that brand

 

Gates is good to go.