Your car’s thermostat keeps your engine running at the right temperature. It regulates the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator, ensuring your engine warms up properly and doesn’t overheat. When the thermostat starts to fail, it can cause poor fuel efficiency, erratic temperature readings, and even serious engine damage if left unchecked.

So, how can you tell if your car’s thermostat is failing? Recognizing the warning signs early can save you from a costly breakdown. Here’s what to watch for and what you should do if your thermostat isn’t working properly.

Temperature Gauge Fluctuations

One of the first signs of a failing thermostat is irregular temperature readings on your dashboard gauge. When working correctly, the thermostat helps your engine reach its optimal temperature quickly and maintain it while driving. If the gauge rises and falls unpredictably, it’s a strong indicator that the thermostat isn’t functioning as it should.

A thermostat stuck open will cause the engine to run too cold, while one stuck closed can cause rapid overheating. If you notice unusual fluctuations in temperature, don’t ignore them—this could be an early sign of a developing problem.

Engine Overheating

If your engine is overheating, a faulty thermostat could be to blame. When the thermostat gets stuck closed, it blocks coolant from circulating, preventing the radiator from cooling down the engine. This leads to a dangerous rise in temperature, often accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard or steam coming from under the hood.

Overheating is a serious issue that can lead to blown head gaskets, warped engine components, and even complete engine failure if not addressed. If your temperature gauge climbs too high, pull over immediately and let the car cool down before seeking assistance.

Cold Engine That Takes Too Long to Warm Up

On the other end of the spectrum, if your car takes forever to warm up and never quite reaches the proper operating temperature, the thermostat might be stuck open. This means coolant is constantly flowing, preventing the engine from heating up as quickly as it should.

A cold-running engine can cause:

• Poor fuel efficiency, as the engine compensates by burning more fuel
• Lack of heat from the cabin heater, making winter driving uncomfortable
• Increased engine wear over time, as the engine isn’t reaching optimal temperatures

If your car struggles to heat up even after several minutes of driving, the thermostat could be the culprit.

Coolant Leaks and Low Coolant Levels

A faulty thermostat can sometimes cause coolant leaks, especially if it gets stuck closed. When coolant can’t circulate, pressure builds up in the cooling system, leading to cracked hoses, leaks around the thermostat housing, or even radiator damage.

If you notice puddles of coolant under your car or your coolant levels drop quickly without explanation, your thermostat might not be functioning properly. Ignoring a coolant leak can lead to more significant engine issues, so it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible.

Strange Noises from the Cooling System

A well-functioning cooling system should operate quietly. However, if your thermostat isn’t regulating coolant flow correctly, you may hear gurgling or rumbling sounds coming from the radiator or engine bay. These noises occur when air pockets form in the cooling system due to inconsistent coolant flow.

Unusual sounds combined with temperature issues should never be ignored, as they often indicate that something is restricting the coolant from moving properly through the system.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Bad Thermostat

A faulty thermostat might seem like a minor issue, but leaving it unchecked can lead to major engine damage and expensive repairs. Whether your car is overheating or running too cold, addressing thermostat problems early can save you from poor fuel economy, reduced engine lifespan, and costly breakdowns.

For drivers in Baldwin Place and Croton Falls, NY, where seasonal temperature changes put added stress on a car’s cooling system, ensuring your thermostat is working properly is even more important. Regular inspections can help catch small issues before they become major problems.

Noticing temperature issues in your car? Visit Proper Service of Baldwin Place in Baldwin Place, NY, for a full cooling system inspection and thermostat replacement. Call today to schedule an appointment!