How to Replace the Thermostat on a Honda CRV
by Lisa Wampler
When the thermostat goes bad in a Honda CRV, you risk causing serious damage to the engine if you do not replace it. Replacing the thermostat is much cheaper and easier then replacing or rebuilding an engine that has been damaged from an inoperable cooling system. If you've ever been interested in knowing what keeps your CRV engine running in top shape, the job of replacing a thermostat is a good way to get started.
Step 1
Locate the thermostat housing cover by tracing the radiator cover, which extends from the top of the radiator to the right side of the engine. The CRV engine is installed sideways, so the right side faces the radiator. The thermostat housing is coupled with the radiator hose.
Step 2
Remove the bolts from the thermostat housing cover with a 10 mm wrench. Pull the thermostat housing up and away from the base of the engine. Leave it connected to the radiator hose, but push it off to the side so you can access the thermostat.
Step 3
Pull the thermostat out of the engine. It's not bolted into place, so it can be pulled right out. Locate the thermostat housing gasket on the base of the engine. Pull it off, and throw it away.
Step 4
Place a new gasket in place, and set the thermostat back into the CRV engine. Be careful not to get the gasket wet--that could cause a leak.
Step 5
Place the thermostat housing cover back onto the engine, and bolt it into place. Warm the engine up, then check for any leaks. If there is a leak, tighten the cover down more. This should eliminate any leaking.
References
Things You'll Need
- Honda CRV thermostat
- Honda CRV thermostat gasket
- 10 mm wrench
Warnings
- Never work on an engine's cooling system while the engine is hot. The cooling system is pressurized when it is warm, and you could get a serious burn from hot coolant.
