How to Replace a Thermostat in a Toyota Echo

by Zyon Silket

Unfortunately for Toyota Echo owners, Toyota did not place the thermostat in a location that makes it easy to access. You must complete additional steps like draining the motor oil to gain access to the thermostat housing. This makes the job somewhat labor-intensive compared to other vehicles, where the thermostat is located in the intake manifold.

Step 1

Place a drain pan under the petcock on the Echo's radiator and drain the contents of the radiator into the drain pan.

Step 2

Place a second drain pan under the oil pan and drain the contents of the oil pan into the container.

Step 3

Follow the lower radiator hose to the location where it connects to the water pump. The pump positions right behind the alternator.

Step 4

Remove the oil filter with an oil filter wrench to gain access to the necessary bolts to remove the thermostat housing.

Step 5

Disconnect the wiring harness from the inlet housing if equipped with one. The only engine that has one is the 7A-FE engine. If the housing has no harness, skip this step.

Step 6

Disconnect the radiator hose from the inlet housing by squeezing the tabs on the clamp together with pliers and then pulling on the hose.

Step 7

Remove the two bolts that secure the thermostat housing to the cylinder head with a socket. Pull the housing off the pump to expose the thermostat.

Step 8

Pull the thermostat and gasket out of the head and wipe down the mating surfaces with a clean rag.

Step 9

Place the new gasket onto the thermostat and then place the thermostat into the head with the spring side inside the head. Position the jiggle valve between the stud bolts of the thermostat housing.