How to Replace a Thermostat in a 2003 Concorde

The thermostat on your 2003 Chrysler Concorde maintains your car's engine at normal operating temperature. The thermostat is a temperature-controlled valve that opens when the engine reaches a predefined temperature. This allows the engine to heat up more quickly than if the thermostat was open all the time or missing. A thermostat that is stuck closed won't allow coolant to flow through the radiator, which will cause the engine temperature to climb continuously, which will cause overheating and severe engine damage. Changing the thermostat is a job you can do in your front yard in about an hour.

Instructions

1

Locate the radiator drain plug at the bottom of the radiator. Place the drain pan under the drain plug and open the plug by turning it counterclockwise. Drain the cooling system.

2

Place the jack under the front frame member and lift the car high enough that you can slide under the car comfortably. Place the jack stand under the frame behind the wheels and carefully lower the car onto the stands. Remove the jack.

3

Slide under the car and disconnect the engine oil and power steering pressure switches.

4

Remove the bolts securing the thermostat housing by rotating them counterclockwise with the wrench. Grasp the housing and remove it. Note the thermostat orientation and remove the thermostat.

5

Clean both mating surfaces with the gasket scraper. Apply a thin bead of RTV sealant to both mating surface and install the new thermostat. Apply the new gasket. Install the housing and insert the bolts in the bolt holes. Turn the bolts clockwise by hand. Tighten the bolts to 105 inch-pounds of torque.

6

Reattach the electrical connectors.

7

Slide out and refill the cooling system with clean coolant. Start the car and check for leaks. Refill the cooling system as needed. Lift the car, remove the jack stands and lower the car. Remove the jack.

8

Pour the old coolant into a sealable container and take it to a suitable recycling center.