Understanding Car Thermostats - Definition, Function, and How They Work

All devices installed in the car certainly have their own tasks. This includes the engine thermostat. 

Although it plays a crucial role, this small device resembling a valve is often removed. 

The reason is that it is not deemed necessary. So what exactly is the function of the car thermostat? Here is the review. 

Location and Appearance of the Thermostat

Before going directly to the function, you need to know that this thermostat does not have an appearance like a room temperature detector. Its appearance is more like a metal valve with different components. 

This shape and appearance are used because the thermostat is located right in the path of the radiator hose and the engine. The thermostat is one of the main parts of the car cooling radiator. The task of the radiator is very much related to temperature. 

This is proven because the coolant is used to lower the heat from the engine. The coolant liquid will absorb heat and pass through various channels repeatedly until the engine heat decreases.  

Read also: 8 Main Components of the Car Engine Cooling System

Task of the Car Engine Thermostat

So, what exactly does this temperature measuring device do? Looking at its appearance and shape, it can be said that the function of the car thermostat is as a valve that can detect the temperature of the liquid passing through it. 

Its location in the water channel from the cylinder block and combustion chamber gives it an important role. Clearly, its task is to detect the temperature of the water circulating from the engine to the radiator. 

This device will decide whether to open or close the valve depending on the temperature of the incoming liquid. 

Generally, this temperature valve will open if the coolant liquid passing through has a high temperature reaching 85 – 90 degrees Celsius. 

The coolant will then go to the heater core where the heat dissipation occurs. However, if the liquid is not hot enough, the valve will close. 

Thus, the water flow will not circulate in the radiator. This water circulation occurs to help optimize and accelerate the heating of the car engine. 

Read also: 5 Causes of Engine Overheating

How the Thermostat Works

The function of the car thermostat will be clearer if you pay attention to the sequence of how the radiator works. In this case, this temperature regulator will function as a by-pass valve. 

This will help open and close the cooling channel from the radiator to the engine. The circulation of water and heat from the engine will be affected by the condition of the valve.

You can imagine the working of the radiator starting from the pumping of coolant from the water pump to the engine. Water will flow to the water jacket or water circulation in the engine. 

Here, the coolant will absorb heat and continue the circulation by exiting the hose to the top part of the radiator.

In the upper radiator, there will be a temperature reduction that occurs due to the expulsion of hot air. This air is expelled through the radiator grille and assisted by the cooling fan. 

After that, the water will return to the radiator to be circulated again. The function of the car thermostat will assist in this circulation process. 

That is a brief overview of the car thermostat located in the radiator cooling channel. As part of the radiator, the presence of this temperature gauge is considered very important. 

Especially considering its task of transferring heat from the engine to the radiator. Without the thermostat, the water circulation will not function optimally and will result in overheating. 

Read also: 6 Initial Steps to Overcome an Overheating Car Engine