If you own a 2016 Jeep Wrangler and need to replace the thermostat, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to get this job done. Let’s get started.
Draining the Coolant
The first step is to drain the coolant out of your engine. This step is crucial to prevent any mess when replacing the thermostat. If your Jeep still has the plastic piece at the bottom that blocks the radiator, you’ll need to remove it to access the bottom of the radiator more easily. This will allow you to drain the coolant efficiently.
Removing the Plastic Pieces
You can remove the plastic pieces with a flat head screwdriver and some pliers. Simply pop the pieces off by inserting the screwdriver and twisting it. Once all the plastic pieces are removed, set up a bucket to catch the coolant as it drains out.
Refining the Process
If you have trouble removing the latch to drain the coolant, use pliers to help with the process. The coolant may drain slowly, so be patient. Some tips and tricks on removing the plastic pieces can make this part easier.
Accessing the Thermostat
With the coolant drained and the necessary parts removed, you can access the thermostat. Take off the air intake hose and the radiator reservoir hose to reach the thermostat housing. Using pliers, clamp the hose and remove the bolts to reach the thermostat.
Replacing the Thermostat
When replacing the thermostat, remember to remove the old rubber gasket from the thermostat housing to prevent any leaks. Put the new thermostat in place, ensuring a secure fit and cleanliness. Then, reassemble the parts in reverse order.
Final Steps and Maintenance
Lastly, pay attention to the coolant level over the next week, especially in the reservoir tank. Watch for any potential leaks and ensure the coolant is at the appropriate level. Keep an eye on the check engine light, as it may need to be reset or go through a drive cycle to ensure the thermostat replacement resolved the issue.
With these steps, you should be able to successfully remove and replace the thermostat on your 2016 Jeep Wrangler. If you encounter any difficulties, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.