Hey everyone,

My 2008 suddenly has very weak heat as of three weeks ago. I have checked if it's the HVC and it seems to be opening properly because when I cycle from 65 to 85 on the climate control, it will go from cold to warm, unfortunately it's not HOT like it used to be. Of course it has to be mid winter when this stuff happens.

I figured I'll change thermostat first since both the upper and lower rad hoses are hot when car is running, which leads me to believe it's stuck open. Also, the temp gauge on the dash is pretty much @ 3/8 mark all the time but i don't remember if it is supposed to be @ 1/2 or not. I looked and see there's conflicting reports of some where theirs stays @ 1/4 some @ 1/2 or pre 07/08 are 1/2 and 07/08 are 1/4 to 3/8 mark.

I am under the impression that if thermostat was working properly, usually only one hose would be hot until it opens up?

Anyways, is it possible to change it without draining the coolant? if I have to i'm not sure how much will come out i don't have a garage and don't really have a proper place to do this.

 

A lot will spill out when you access the thermostat.
You drain it first so you won't make a mess.

 

dang, alright i need to figure out when and where i can do this thanks

 

anywhere. Unscrew drain plug, capture in bucket or container. Tighten radiator drain plug. Fill Radiator with clean fluid after replacing Thermostat.