The cooling system is an important part of any Porsche engine, and any interference with this system is likely to have a negative impact on the performance of your vehicle. If you noticed that your Porsche has bright-coloured liquid on the ground under the engine, or you constantly get low coolant warning messages, then you might have a leak from the thermostat housing.
Although it may not appear to be a big problem at the beginning, this leakage can cause overheating and very costly damage to the engine if it is left unchecked. That is why in this article, we will look at what leads to a thermostat housing leak, how to solve this problem before it gets out of hand, and where you should go if you want the repair done perfectly the first time.
What Does the Thermostat Housing Do?
The thermostat housing is a casing that holds the thermostat and it has a connection to the radiator and engine through hoses. It contains a heat-sensitive element that opens and closes depending on the temperature in the engine. If the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed to allow the engine to warm up. When it gets to the desired temperature, the thermostat opens and allows the coolant to circulate to avoid overheating. If the housing warps or cracks, or if the gasket is compromised, then coolant will begin to leak.
Why Does the Thermostat Housing Leak?
- Wear and Age: The first reason for leak formation is aging and wear of the material used for the housing. Most thermostat housings today are made of plastic material, and after several cycles of heating and cooling, this material becomes brittle. This brittleness can lead to the formation of cracks or splits which facilitate the escape of coolant.
- Gasket or Seal Failure: Another cause is the failure of gaskets or seals. The gasket or seal is located between the thermostat housing and the engine and its purpose is to ensure that the coolant does not leak out. Heat and vibrations, however, can weaken the rubber material and cause it to stiffen or develop cracks. When that happens, coolant leaks slowly and leaves behind a deposit on the housing.
How to Fix a Leak in the Thermostat Housing
- Diagnosis: The first step in the process of repairing a leaking thermostat housing is to inspect the component. A mechanic will look for dried-up coolant or fresh leaks around the thermostat housing. If the leakage is not visible, then a pressure test may be carried out to put pressure on the coolant system to pinpoint the leakage.
- Taking out the Damaged Housing: The coolant is drained to avoid spilling during the repair and also to ensure the engine area remains clean. After flushing out the coolant from the radiator and the reservoir, the next step is to get rid of the old thermostat housing. The housing is slowly unscrewed and removed from the engine. Apart from the housing, the gasket or seal has to be checked and changed if it is worn out and the mounting surfaces are cleaned in preparation for the new seals.
- Installing New Housing: The next step is the installation of a new thermostat housing. In some cases, an OEM housing is used, but if not available, a high quality aftermarket housing is installed. A new gasket or rubber seal is also fitted, and all bolts and nuts are tightened to the right torque. If the repair involves the use of sealant, then the right one is used to prevent further complications in the future.
Bring Your Car To Dieter’s Porsche & BMW Service For Quality Thermostat Repairs
Dieter’s Porsche & BMW Service is committed to offering professional services for all Porsche models. We have a well equipped workshop in San Diego, CA where we attend to our clients automotive needs. For over 60 years, we have been the go-to auto repair shop for drivers throughout Mission Valley, Point Loma, Chula Vista, Coronado, and other cities. We know that a cooling system is mandatory for any car, and that is why we take any repair from a simple leakage of coolant to a complete replacement of the thermostat housing very seriously. Our team uses only the best quality spare parts and tools which will make the results long-lasting. If you feel your Porsche is developing a cooling problem, don’t hesitate, let us help you maintain your engine and keep it free from problems. Call us now to get started!