How to Change a Thermostat in a PT Cruiser

The PT Cruiser thermostat is easy to replace. If your car is overheating but you have plenty of coolant then this might be your problem. To change the thermostat all you have to do is unbolt the radiator fill cap and you have fast access. It is not the easiest thermostat to get to but it isnt bad. It could also be due to a bad head gasket which is what happened to mine.
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. ChrisFix assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. ChrisFix recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ChrisFix.

[@michaelheaton7385]

I am a single woman that really needed to save money on the thermostat replacement ($161.00 labor) with me furnishing the parts. I used this article to replace my thermostat on my PT. It was fantastic. The job would of taken about 15 minutes but of course it took me longer due to my own lack of knowledge. What I would advise is that when you remove the bolts that hold the housing down, that you use a magnetic wrench set. I dropped one of the screws, it fell below the housing and got hung up on other parts. The recovery took several hours because of the tight spots. But, I did complete the job according to this wonderful article. Thank you for the help.

[@csn6234]

michael heaton You're a woman and your name is Michael?

[@benjefferson9542]

Congratulations!!! Not sure who quoted you $161 to replace it but they were trying to take advantage.

[@lobitome]

My Mom got a quote today for $250 at Mieneke. For a $12-20 part. This video saved a bunch of money.

[@Anna-tc6rz]

@@benjefferson9542 I've found many mechanics will especially for a woman. My dad and I called in for a quote a week apart same job same car and I was quoted 100 more

[@DanKirchner5150]

mikey's single guys ,and he's ready to save money !

[@sushialaleniah1320]

We are two ladies in our 60's. You made this so easy. Thank you so much...we are taking our money saved and going out to dinner!

[@eatmedust]

hahah 😈😈😈

[@eatmedust]

nice pfp

[@anthonyhardy4209]

Nice photo

[@geraldmcclellan7564]

I was checking on the comments and I saw were someone said to $160.00 for labor and they had to buy the parts, wow that’s cheap! We’re I live labor for this job the cheapest I could find was $225.00 plus I would have to supply the part’s, thanks Chris I did myself in about 30 minutes 😀

[@ScottPeters188]

Man I love Google and guys like you who make life's little headaches SO much easier. Thanks man.

[@chrisfix]

+Scott Peters No problem!

[@rethahooper9494]

Scott Peters where is location of thermostat Chevy equinox

[@rethahooper9494]

Change thermostat 2008 Chevy equinox

[@rethahooper9494]

Chevy Equinox thermostat where is it on car

[@Lottisanta]

Scott Peters l

[@maggiesjourney3877]

I also am a single, disabled woman in my 50s and really couldn't afford to bring it to a shop. I am so grateful to you. I did this over a week ago all by myself. I couldn't bleed the valve. I found the correct wrench but couldn't move it. I will have my son do it when I go up to visit him. NO MORE OVER HEATING. I did have a problem getting the hose back on but got a new nifty pipe wrench. Thank you so much. You are truly kind.

[@chrisfix]

Awesome! I am glad the video was helpful Maggie!

[@maggiesjourney3877]

Thank you so much. I think it was a different size socket from what you said but I figured it out. Any suggestions for loosening the valve, or should I just wait and have my son do it?? It isn't overheating so I think I'm safe to drive 150 miles to see him.

[@nathanbame4198]

Neat seeing how much he's improved his video shooting/ editing skills over the years.

[@MsQLoveTarotLoveMoneyLife]

This was posted 7 yrs ago and the best I found to fix my thermostat 👍🏽😁✅ Thank you 😘

[@chaostiny]

Thanks for this awesome video! I did this project, all without hubby's help, cus he's sick of working on my PT. Your video made it so easy! This is the third PT video of yours we have used. I don't know what we'd do without you! Thanks so much and keep up the awesome videos!

[@BennyC-qg6rd]

This is the Best explanation I have ever heard for replacing a thermostat. Well done.

[@chrisfix]

Haha, thanks man! I want to make a how to change spark plugs and wires... That might be next... Any requests?

[@DoctorPC93]

Dear Chris fix. We would like a video replacing a time belt and a water pump on a chrysler pt cruiser. It is really difficult and there is no actual and clear video on how To do it exactly. It is very expensive and difficult work and if you can teach us we would be grateful!! Thank you. Keep up the Good work!!

[@hyperviper5947]

Lower control arm for sure, also your video for bleeding the cooling system it was on a BMW, could you show how to on a PT?

[@memesfuckingrule2894]

2013:Chris was just Chris 2021:Chris is a damn legend and will always be😤

[@Fryguy845]

Thanks! A friend of mine gave me a 2003 PT cruiser and I don’t know a thing about Chryslers. I look forward to learning more with help from your videos.

[@manofthesword7170]

We just did my sons car . Great way for him to learn how to work on things . You broke it down well .

[@VibeASMR]

Killer tutorial, not only was the thermostat change given but you gave instruction on how to bleed the system

[@chrisfix]

+Michael Vander I cannot reply to your comment for some reason, but you go in from the front of the engine to get to the bleeder. Watch the video again because I show you that.

[@jolemays3218]

? My tempaure gauge goes up while at a stop light and goes down when am driving could that be the thermostat

[@herecomesabirdd]

@@jolemays3218 that sounds more like a fan issue

[@lexi0040]

❤ thank you !!! I did this today and the problem is fixed 🙌 single mom here🙋‍♀️ really happy with this kind of video's thanks ❤

[@chrisfix]

No prob! Subscribe so when I make a new video you get an update! Is the compressor kicking on when you turn your AC on?

[@billybadass601]

Your voice sounds way different in your videos now!! Keep up the good work

[@cynthiahandly4033]

Your video is outstanding. I love how you actually show close-ups of the parts and the areas that you need to access. I can't express how fantastic your instructions are. THANK YOU!

[@chrisfix]

Unfortunately I am not nearby. If you are subscribed, I have a bunch of PT Cruiser videos and I am constantly making more. Then you can fix your car yourself!

[@CharlieJohnson963]

Ok so I followed your instructions step by step and now my engine is running at 195* and I have heat again!!!! Thank you Sir for posting this video. You're Awesome dude! 👍

[@DianaMarieLee]

I just wanted to say thank you for sharing this video! Your insight, tips, and thoroughness helped me change my thermostat all by myself! Greatly appreciated!!!!

[@jamieinred7845]

Thanks, Chris! My 2002 PT Cruiser recently had it's thermostat bust and let the engine overheat. It was easy for me to fix it myself with the help of your video. I appreciate all the help you give!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks! I will be making many more!

[@cdmackay2012]

Hey Thanks for showing me how. I had overheating situation with my wife's car and after I changed the thermostat the problem went away!. Great video!!

[@Protecto.r]

Chris your videos are always so detailed and well explained. Thanks man!

[@ccarbone3561]

Thanks. Also, future Chris fix is way more excited! Keep it up man.

[@chrisfix]

Thanks! It is a panasonic ts3 waterproof camera. I definitely suggest it. I love mine! I use a tripod for most of the shots and then if I need both hands and a moving camera, I phone a friend lol

[@chrisfix]

That is a good tip. Distilled (pure) water is best! Thanks!

[@amandareese833]

This was an excellent video. He explained things very clearly and without extra useless information.

[@chrisfix]

Thanks. Glad it was helpful and thanks for the like!!!!

[@chrisfix]

Awesome!!! Glad the video helped!

[@teresaeckert9675]

Thank you for posting this "How To Change a Thermostat in a PT Cruiser" tutorial. We, my boyfriend and I did this together and it was a GREat success! Have a awesome day! :)

[@csn6234]

Teresa Eckert No man should ever be forced to drive a PT Cruiser. Not even if it's a condition to get the vagine.

[@eatmedust]

@@csn6234 tf u babbling abt child

[@aresnickle3921]

Been a sub for a while just changed the thermostat on my sisters car (saved her 250-350 quoted at mechanics) on a 40 dollar part and some coolant

[@chrisfix]

Haha, thanks a lot man! Glad the video helped!

[@stewartlightstone3442]

Excellent Chris, thank you for all the fabulous how to videos...you do a superb, clear and concise job of it...much appreciated

[@chrisfix]

Larry Lightstone Thanks Larry! I am glad the video was helpful! New automotive 'how to' videos every Thursday and most Mondays so stay tuned

[@chrisfix]

Thanks for the comment! Glad the video was helpful! Give it a thumbs up if you havent already! Thanks!

[@richlewisbikes]

Thanks very much for your simple video. I changed mine following all steps successfully! Awesome!

[@Jeremy-rp3in]

Thanks for saving me $350! This was super easy!

[@collinroberts7426]

Thanks man, now I can fix my girls PT and save a ton of money. Much appreciated, new subscriber.

[@imjohnmoore]

Great video! Clear and easy to understand. Good job lighting in the engine compartment.

[@chrisfix]

Thanks! That's my goal and comments like this are really great!

[@hezmora]

Thanks a lot! I don't feel brave enough to try it myself, but I'm glad I understand it now.

[@reinerio3341]

thanks. by far the best instructive "how to video" on this particular replacement.

[@jimmiller4951]

Bottom line ... good video Dude. Thanks for taking the time to help others. Peace

[@kathylewis7543]

Thanks Chris for the broadcast. Always something to figure out isn't that always the way!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks! Glad it was helpful!

[@jonathandoe2316]

Your tempera was still rising. Got the feeling if you would've drove it would've ran hot. I'm gonna try to fix mines with your advice. But people keep telling me not to. To take it to a shop to pay 100 something dollars.

[@mrgrass1389]

I personally appreciate these no B.S "How To" videos. Thank you!!!

[@chrisfix]

Def, I agree!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks man!

[@theorushinjr9023]

After looking for days for a video to locate and change my PT Cruiser Thermostat, yours was THE BEST! Thanks Guy! I should have known to trust a guy with Paintball in his handle. Paintball and PT Cruisers ... Life Is Good!

[@jennifernash4721]

Wow! Great, easy to follow video. Thank you!!!!

[@richardfarmer9637]

So clear and instructive! Great video, thank you so much!!😊

[@eduardocampos8511]

Great video. I just change my thermostat thanks to your video.

[@motordar]

Good vid. I wasn't sure about starting this until I watched this vid. Thanks.

[@MissAnneB100]

Love your vídeos! They usually help me a lot with My Pt. Crusier ;)

[@Lazerchicken69]

here in 2024 watching this 10 year old video to replace my thermostat thanks Mr. Fix!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks a lot!

[@yyuujggggyy1690]

Just completed mine now very easy thank you

[@alemap000]

Great video! Helpful and clear - thanks.

[@robinemery]

thanks for the info, I'm gonna do mine myself

[@marcuslopezmarcuslopez4933]

I watched this video to change my thermostat on my 06 Taurus it helped a lot thank u Chris fix

[@andreajackson3523]

This is a great video. Thank you sooooo much. Very helpful and easy to follow.

[@theorushinjr9023]

Thank you so much!!. After looking at your video I was able to change my thermostat in about 30 minutes. It was so easy. What wasn't easy was finding the 13/32 socket. I searched all day, 7 stores, to find that socket of a set that contains it. At the end of the day I found it in a hardware store (not an auto store) in a kit. Unfortunately the car is still overheating - no leaks, no smoke, no loss of coolant. We think it's the head gasket.

[@davidgruen7423]

Are you kidding me? Who still uses “standard” socket anyways? I don’t even own those kind of sockets, all I have is metric sockets and it totally did the job, I remember it’s a 10mm.

[@dennishalloween]

Thanks a lot for your video! My pt cruiser temperature gauge is running steady at the blue / cold level because the thermostat is open at all temperatures. Now I'll change the thermostat 😁 Greets from 🇩🇪

[@larryfluty2017]

Good instructive video. I will be doing this (among other things) to my PT Cruiser tomorrow. Chilton's manual says to remove intake manifold: obviously not necessary.

[@everettwatts83]

Thank you ❗ this was a big help.

[@chrisfix]

Could be air in the system, head gasket, or even the waterpump. With the car cold, take off the radiator cap and start her up. Let her run at idle, then watch to see if the coolant goes down. If it does, add water directly to the radiator. Then have someone rev the car up to 2500rpms and hold it. See if the coolant level goes down. If it does, add more. Make sure you bleed the system good! Also, to see if you have a head gasket leak: check the oil for frothiness...

[@chrisfix]

Just watch my "How to Change a Wheel Bearing (short and fast version)" (type that into a youtube search and click on the first video. Follow the steps until you can get your axle to pull out. Then put the new axle in and finish watching the video. Same procedure. Also, there is a more in depth video I made "How to Change a Wheel Bearing (long and detailed version)" if you need a slower more detailed version. Let me know if this helps!

[@christside9771]

That was a great video! Simple, to the point and easy. Thanks

[@chrisfix]

Glad it was helpful!

[@miketritz9821]

Great job explaining this Thanks

[@jameswilhite4247]

Great presentation. I am ready to jump in with both wrenches! Thanks!

[@carlbennaton9300]

That's a good one 😂

[@lyssasymone1704]

Thank you soooo much dude! Replaced mine today with my dad! Super helpful!

[@chrisfix]

+Lyssa Symone awesome! Great work!

[@mikelopez7465]

Great work, & great communication, thanks

[@msoiseth3419]

Very nice job on this instructional video. I'm gonna try it.

[@par4thecourse845]

Well done. Excellent description!!!

[@Logan-xo2mk]

This helped me out so much! Thank you!

[@Astigpinay]

i am really wishing that you are from around here! i got the 06 PT cruiser and would like to learn all that you know. you are so cool! i got problem with temperature too! you are awesome!

[@arturolopez9314]

Good video I just did it. Following your instructions thanks.

[@JpMcG]

Thanks for the vid.!!! I planned to do it the same way but didn't know about the " bleeding " process. Someone else mentioned here that the thermo. should be open during the bleeding so I assume the engine should be hot enough to open the thermo. Sounds right to me. Hope this works as I am doing it for a single mom with very little money. Thanks again !!!!

[@Wydenproductions]

Great video and great job. This will save me 200.00!

[@TheMoron9]

just bought a 2006 pt cruiser, and I think the therm is sticking. thanks for making this, it seems a lot easier than I was thinking it was going to be.

[@heathernorman4087]

Awesome video, good step by step instructions....liked!!!!

[@westisdabest4921]

This was so easy it was literally hands free job. It was manually done by Manuel my bro as I supervised his work making sure no sweat got in his eyes and he had beer on demand

[@Frodawnthrift]

Exactly what I'm looking for in 2019.

[@sprucet9639]

Great video, I like the detail, well done.

[@edgarverduzco9187]

Great job,thanks.awesome video

[@rachelblack3816]

The thermostat housing that you are tightening down is plastic, so it's important NOT to over-tighten it, or it may crack (and then have to be replaced). The specification for the tightening of the coolant housing bolts is 110 inch-pounds. A cheap torque wrench with the correct range of torque is available at Harbor Freight; just make sure it has 110 inch-pounds in its adjustable range (there are a few different torque wrenches with different ranges; the one you'd use for replacing the thermostat is somewhat smaller, as torque wrenches go). Also, the thermostat has a very important job to do, so don't go cheap when you replace it! Even the best-quality thermostats are not expensive so buy the best quality you can; NAPA has (in my opinion) the best aftermarket parts, or buy it from a Chrysler dealership to get the OEM thermostat. You'll be glad you did. Lastly, it's important to replace the lost coolant with the correct type. Chrysler recommends using Zerex G-05 coolant (available at any car part store). If you add water, NEVER NEVER NEVER add tap water! (unless it is an emergency and that's all you can get). Tap water has minerals (hardness) that will precipitate out of solution and clog your radiator and heater cores. Only add DISTILLED WATER, R.O. (Reverse Osmosis) WATER, OR D.I. (De-ionized) WATER! Distilled water is cheap and can be bought at any grocery store. One more 'lastly', when you replace the thermostat, it might be a good idea to replace the radiator cap at the same time. They also are not expensive, and have an important job to do associated with the thermostat, and they do go bad eventually, just like thermostats. If your radiator cap goes bad it can cause overheating, so go ahead and replace it at the same time (do not replace the radiator cap when the engine is hot, though, or you're likely to get burned by boiling coolant).

[@SilverDashie]

interestingly the one on my PT is metal.

[@naturewins]

Good advice, thanks

[@rogertaylor8615]

You can also use a regular torque wrench just divide inch pounds by 12 and you can get foot pounds

[@manuelvargas6250]

chris.tu video esta muy bien explicado.muchas gracias.un gran saludo desde rocky point sonora mexico

[@charlesjelks143]

This helped a lot. Thanks

[@callmewuteva]

Awesome video very detailed

[@lotusblossom637]

Thanks! I. Did it all by myself..real quick n easy.

[@chrisfix]

+Lotus Blossom Awesome!

[@canuckfixit7722]

Great vid. I'll be doing this repair on my PT this weekend! I usually don't bother with bleeding unless I have an air lock problem. Maybe I'll try it anyway.

[@carlbennaton9300]

Yes I should do it myself . Don't think my mechanic did any bleeding , except for bleeding my good brother!!

[@norrisjose1747]

Awesome dude many thanks on the bleeding part.....learn something new!👍👍

[@wil0099]

Did the trick for our Cruiser Thanks.

[@chrisfix]

Great! That is why I make theses videos!

[@robinemery]

I just saved 142.53, thanx to your video! thank you car guy!!

[@SuperMouseDV]

Thanks for posting this video I was wondering about the radiator bleed and you helped me figure that one out... Thanks Much appreciated.

[@chrisfix]

Great! Glad it was helpful!

[@sfcd4757]

I use an extendo magnetic stick...i wish i knew about these years earlier...cant tell you how many hours i have wasted on dropped bolts....and those claw cables are awesome too. Great video

[@chrisfix]

Thanks!

[@jejohnson104]

very nicely done video. thanks.

[@savealifecounselinggroup1070]

Thank you Chris

[@jameshobbs7065]

You are a true artist