03 wrx,how to change my thermostat?
 

hey guys, just noticed that when my car is parked with the engine running for about 5 minutes, he starts to overheat, but while running it doesnt have any problems even when running hard it doest stutter to overheat. but when parked it overheats... called a mechanic and he said it must be the thermostat, how do I change it? do you recomend any specific brand? also which coolant do you recomend?

thanks

sincerely

@rts

Generally when t-stat fails, the coolant doesn't come up to temp. Does your fan kick on?

If it was the thermostat it would overheat when driving as well as when parked. Sounds more like the fans aren't coming on.

I love it how peeps put up Q's then never chime back in.

but doesnt the t-stat control the temp @ where the fan turn on? where is the t-stat located on our cars?

The thermostat is a mechanical device in the cooling system that opens at a preset temperature. It has nothing to do with controlling the fans, that is a function of the ECU based on the data from the coolant temperature sensor. Or perhaps your mechanic was actually referring to the coolant sensor and not the thermostat. In any case no self-respecting mechanic will make a diagnosis over the phone without actually seeing and checking the car out, it's impossible to make an accurate determination that way.
Before you throw parts at the car, someone who knows what they are doing needs to look at it. I suggest NOT going to the mechanic you spoke to, find another one.

jeje... problem solved.. t-stat was stuck closed ... fans are ok, replaced the t-stat and no more overheating... thanks for your help.