Coolant Temp

[Itguy]

On an early gti. 2005 model. Do I have to drain the coolant in order to change the main thermostat. I know I do for the smaller ones. Just wanted to confirm for the main

Yes you do

[Human Joist]

Cheers bud

[Itguy]

It's obvious when you get in there but the thermostat is on the side of the engine block about half way down, probably in the worst position possible for DIY!

[Human Joist]

Am hoping I don't need to change that one. My car holds 90 when it gets there but it takes nearly 10 miles to do so. I was thinking it's the two smaller thermostats that have failed.

[jamma]

Part is about £35 (if it is actually the main thermostat housing you need, rather than any of the other thermostats your car may have).

Changing main thermostat is about a 3-4hr job DIY depending on how good you are with the spanners and if you have all the right kit.

Cheers , I need the cambelt done too,  so cambelt, water pump and thermostat is 480 quid so will get it all done at once.

[Ranbeer Singh]

Update.

Changed the main thermostat and car is back to normal 

Thanks chaps

[Wolf Burger]

Update.

Changed the main thermostat and car is back to normal 

Thanks chaps

Mine being done in the next couple of weeks.
How long and how much mate?

[OSB]

VW Book Time is 3hrs.
DIY time seems to be 3-4hrs depending on skill, access etc - there is probably someone out there who has done it quicker though!

[Ranbeer Singh]

Mine being done in the next couple of weeks.
How long and how much mate?

HI Mate,

Got my mechanic to do it.

3hrs work
£80.00 labour
£30.00 thermostat
£5.00 coolant
--------------------
£115.00 all in

cheers

[Human Joist]

Right update. Drained the coolant and found a good place to do so of a link On here by removing a pipe on a low point and letting it all come out neatly. Did not bother with any proper drainage points. Then replaced both smaller thermostats. Both were completely knackered and I could not even move them with pliars. The only trouble I had was the clips were the wrong way round so could not get straight on to the spring part. Sorted filled back up and back on the road. Just want a cold star to check it's sorted.