2003 Dodge Neon thermostat problem

2003 DODGE NEON
123,800 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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LADYDRIVER21
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  • 1 POST
Does a tech have to tear down an engine to tell if a thermostat was installed incorrectly and/or is opening too soon and remaining open to long. If not, what is the procedure to diagnose this?
Aug 29, 2009 at 7:10 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You do not need to tear down the engine to replace the thermostat

Follow the upper radiator hose to the engine, there is a housing with two bolts one up and one down. Remove them, noting the position of the existing thermostat. Pull it out, scrape off any material or buildup on the housing and engine side, replace the seal and thermostat.
Aug 30, 2009 at 4:33 AM
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