thowho1985

Hello,

What is the average life of a thermostat? I start my car up drive like a mile or so then turn it off. (someties 6 times a day) The guage says that it goes almost all the way up to operating temp. My question is, will this just wear out the t-stat so it will have to be replaced sooner? Also, is there any regular interval for replacing it for just "preventative maintence"? What else do you usually change at that time. I am just afraid of it not opening and being stuck, or it overheating and goodbye head gasket.


Thanks,
Joe

HaveBlue

I'd be more concerned about the starter and other parts of the engine if you're only driving a mile at a time. That's classified as "extreme driving conditions." And on your 2nd gen, the starter is an absolute biotch to replace
If it were me, I would save up a few dollars and buy a Go-Ped or something. Or, if you're really trendy, get one of those Segways.

I used to be the same way, especially when I was in high school. Despite the fact that school was only a mile away, I HAD to drive. Work was even worse. It was 3 blocks away. Yet, I never knew when I would have to pick-up a customer's lawn mower or snow blower. I had to do that once. :pat:
I finally realized that it was easier (and cheaper) to walk or ride my bike.

CTB

Hell ya, that's what I do now...ride my bike. I ride to classes, soccer practice, and just about everywhere within 2 miles or so. It is really ridiculous to me that some people here that only live about 10 minutes from campus by foot still insist on driving their cars. I know there are some other circumstances for some people, but for the majority, it just doesn't make sense to me!

thowho1985

It is for school. It is for 2 high school classes. a teaching class and another class that requires me to leave. I would either walk or ride a bike, but it has been frigid and it's just too far. I replaced the battery side starter angle just 3 months or so ago. The other side looked just fine. When I had it out i cleaned everyhing up on it. Yes, it is terrible to replace. Any comments about the t-stat though?

Thanks,
Joe

growinseed

Most OEM and high quality aftermarket t-stats stick in the open position when they fail. So you should be ok. If in the winter when you do drive long enough to reach normal op temp (a bit under center on temp gauge), if not your t-stat should be replaced. My concern about not running the engine long enough is the EGR and other emisson systems are all ways on. This can lead to carbon build up in oil and recirulation systems. Follow the "special driving conditions" maintenance schedule and you should be fine.
Nathan