2002 Volkswagen GTI URGENT-THERMOSTAT

Tiny
MSMCCORKLE
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 VOLKSWAGEN GTI
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • MANUAL
  • 135,000 MILES
I need to change my thermostat on my 2002 VW GTI 1.8T. I noticed that it is behind the alternator and tucked under the engine block, can someone give me an easy way to get to the thermostat without ripping everything apart? I would appreciate it. Thanks.
Saturday, October 16th, 2010 AT 8:15 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
The thermostat is located in the bottom of the water pump housing.

If equipped, remove the lower engine shield.
Place a large drain pan under the vehicle to collect the coolant.
Remove the radiator cap and drain the cooling system into a suitable container.
On 1.8L engines, remove the water pump housing drain plug.
Loosen one bolt at a time until coolant begins to flow.
Remove both bolts and remove the thermostat.

To install:

Install the thermostat using new O-ring.
If removed, install the water pump drain plug with a new O-ring and tighten to 22 ft. Lbs. (30 Nm).
Torque the housing the bolts to 88 inch lbs. (10 Nm).
Top off cooling system with the recommended fluid and concentration.
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Saturday, October 16th, 2010 AT 10:42 PM

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