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If your Honda Civic is overheating, the first step in the process is to check the coolant level. When you have confirmed that the radiator has sufficient coolant, the indication is that the thermostat is failing or has failed. A stuck thermostat causes overheating which can damage the engine, sometimes beyond repair. Buy a new thermostat at an auto parts store and replace it at home in minutes.
Step 1
Raise the hood of your Civic. Pull the cover off the radiator. Place a drain pan beneath the radiator drain plug on the driver side of the car. Remove the drain plug from the radiator with a wrench.
Step 2
Drain the coolant level until it is below the level of the thermostat housing. Trace the upper radiator hose to the housing to verify the coolant level. Tighten the radiator drain plug. Remove the drain pan and dispose of the coolant properly.
Step 3
Loosen the hose clamp from the thermostat housing with a screwdriver and remove the hose. Remove the three bolts securing the housing with a wrench. Remove and discard the thermostat. Clean the housing of any gasket remnants with a putty knife.
Step 4
Insert the new thermostat into the housing. Place the new gasket provided with the thermostat on the housing cover. Replace the housing cover and secure the three bolts. Torque the bolts to 7 pound-feet with your torque wrench.
Install the hose on the thermostat housing. Tighten the hose clamp to avoid coolant leaks. Add coolant to the radiator until the level is full. Replace the radiator cap. Test-run the engine. Check for coolant leaks while the engine is running.
Items you will need
- Large drain pan
- Wrench set
- Putty knife
- Torque wrench
