2.3L ('02-'11) 08 2.3 thermostat replacement

[carbuff]

So i got the dreaded p0128 for the stuck open thermostat. The part is cheap and it looks like 2 hoses and 3 bolts and its off. Is it that easy? Any pitfalls to look out for? Thanks.

 

[pjtoledo]

mine was easy.

 

[carbuff]

mine was easy.

Yeah, it looks to be that way. I actually cleared the code and the light has stayed off. It has plenty of heat even when the light was on. I also checked as it was warming up, the top hose was hot but the hose leading from the thermostat housing was cold. Eventually it became hot when the thermostat opened up. So it seems to be working at the moment. Ive got the part, if it happens again Ill replace it.

 

[youngmanwithapickuptruck]

unhelpful post, story time: i was in the middle of nowhere across the country when my thermostat got stuck open. there was no light to tell me but i did see the engine temp gauge rise above halfway which i had never seen so i pulled over. i was able to get a local mechanic to look at my car at about 5:45pm and then he had me back on the road by noon the next day