The Honda Accord thermostat is located at the opposite end of the upper radiator hose, near the water pump. The thermostat regulates the engine temperature by regulating the flow of coolant as the engine warms up. When the operating temperature increases, a valve inside the thermostat opens to let additional coolant flow through the hoses, protecting the engine from overheating. When your Accord overheats, a stuck thermostat may be to blame. Buy a replacement thermostat from a Honda dealership or auto parts store. Replace the thermostat at home and save a large repair center charge.
Instructions
- 1
Raise the hood of your Accord. Make sure the engine is cool, then remove the radiator cap. Position a drain pan beneath the radiator drain plug, on the driver side of the radiator. Loosen the radiator drain plug with a wrench.
2Wait while the coolant level drains until it is below the level of the upper radiator hose. Tighten the radiator drain plug. Loosen the hose clamp on the thermostat end of the upper radiator hose with a flat-head screwdriver. Slide the hose clamp up the hose and pull the end of the hose off the thermostat housing.
3Remove the bolts securing the thermostat housing using a socket and ratchet. Separate the housing cover from the mounting area. Remove the thermostat from the housing and discard it. Scrape any remnants of gasket off the housing and the mounting surface with a putty knife.
4Insert the new thermostat in the housing. Place the new gasket on the mounting area and secure the housing to the mounting area with the retaining bolts. Tighten the bolts with a socket and ratchet. Torque the mounting bolts to 9 pound-feet with your torque wrench.
5Replace the radiator hose. Position the hose clamp and tighten it with a flat-head screwdriver. Add coolant to the radiator until the level is full. Replace the radiator cap. Start the engine and watch for any leaks as the engine warms up.
