In this video, I show you the exact location of the engine thermostat on a 2012-2016 Chevrolet Malibu 2.5L. Pinpointing exactly where this housing is bolted to the engine is an essential first step for a smooth DIY vehicle repair, saving you time and keeping you organized before you start draining your cooling system.
Common symptoms of a faulty or stuck thermostat include:
- The engine overheating quickly or running unusually hot under normal driving conditions (stuck closed).
- The engine taking an exceptionally long time to reach operating temperature, or the cabin heater blowing lukewarm air in cold weather (stuck open).
- A lit Check Engine Light (CEL) on your dashboard with cooling system performance codes (such as P0128) or your radiator fans running continuously at high speed.
Safety First: Cooling systems operate under high pressure and can cause severe burns. Always ensure the engine is completely cool before opening the system, protect yourself by wearing safety glasses and durable gloves, and stay completely focused and attentive throughout the entire job.
As an experienced mechanic with a deep background in professional automotive repair and diagnostics, I am here to help you get your car running right. If you have any questions or need advice dealing with your vehicle’s specific breakdown, just drop a comment below and I will help you solve the problem!