How do you replace the thermostat located on a 1999 Dodge Intrepid?

Answer 1

On the 2.7 and 3.2 engines, the thermostat is located at the end of the lower radiator hose, behind the Power Steering pump. It involves draining the coolant, removal of the lower hose and the the thermostat that is attached to it. On 3.2L engines, you have to remove the oil filter as well. There is a heater hose attached to the thermostat housing at the block that has to be removed also. Its a 2 inch long piece of rubber hose, and you just loosen the clamp on one side of it.

Once you have both hoses off, you can remove the thermostat housing, and the thermostat. It has 2 bolts with 10mm heads. Make sure you replace the gasket and clean the surface.

Its not common for the thermostat to go bad on these cars so check your water pump if you have a 2.7L engine, and inspect the rest of the system to make sure there are no problems elsewhere/.

Real Life Note -- If noticing dripping on ground safely lift car and inspect the underside. If coolant is coming out a small hole (weep hole) next to the thermostat housing, that means your water pump is leaking and it needs to be brought to a mechanic. (major job involving lots of work and removal of many many parts - not the job for weekend mechanic sorry) On the other hand if you see coolant dripping from the thermostat housing that's a $30.00 fix. Replace gasket and buy a new thermostat since you got it apart.

My 2001 Dodge Intrepid water pump went bad at 51000 miles and gasket started leaking at 70000 miles. Water pump cost me $500.00 - Gasket I could do myself.

If you want to make yourself feel better most likely your Intrepid is paid for by now and $500.00 for a fix is what a new car payment is on a decent car. If you have to put $500.00 in the car now to fix it.- what the heck its paid for.