How to Change Thermostat on 2001 Subaru Outback

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

A faulty thermostat can cause your engine to overheat, so it’s important to replace it as soon as possible.
The thermostat on a 2001 Subaru Outback is located on the bottom of the engine, near the radiator.
Replacing the thermostat on a Subaru Outback is a relatively simple process that can save you hundreds of dollars in mechanic fees.

Is your 2001 Subaru Outback experiencing engine overheating issues? One of the most common culprits of engine overheating is a faulty thermostat. The thermostat controls the flow of coolant to the engine, and if it’s not working properly, it can cause your engine to overheat. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of changing the thermostat on your 2001 Subaru Outback.

What You’ll Need

Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need to have on hand:

New thermostat
Coolant
Socket wrench set
Drain pan
Funnel
New gasket (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Drain the coolant. Start by making sure your engine is cool to the touch. Then, place a drain pan under the radiator and remove the radiator cap. Next, locate the drain valve on the bottom of the radiator, and using a socket wrench, turn it counterclockwise to open it. Allow the coolant to drain completely.
Remove the thermostat housing. Locate the thermostat housing, which is located on the bottom of the engine, near the radiator. The thermostat housing is held in place with two bolts. Using a socket wrench, remove the bolts and lift the thermostat housing off the engine.
Remove the old thermostat. Once you’ve removed the thermostat housing, you’ll see the thermostat. Carefully remove the old thermostat from the engine.
Install the new thermostat. Place the new thermostat into the opening on the engine, making sure that the spring side of the thermostat is facing into the engine.
Replace the thermostat housing. Put the thermostat housing back into place and secure it with the two bolts. Make sure the bolts are tightened snugly.
Refill the coolant. Using a funnel, pour coolant into the radiator until it reaches the “full” line. Then, replace the radiator cap.
Start the engine. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that the coolant is circulating properly. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge to make sure that your engine is not overheating.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed the thermostat on your 2001 Subaru Outback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my thermostat needs to be replaced?

A: If your engine is overheating or your temperature gauge is reading higher than normal, your thermostat may be faulty and in need of replacement.

Q: Can I replace the thermostat myself?

A: Yes, replacing the thermostat on a 2001 Subaru Outback is a relatively simple process that can be done with basic tools.

Q: Do I need to replace the gasket when I replace the thermostat?

A: It’s not always necessary to replace the gasket, but it’s a good idea to do so, as it can help prevent leaks.

Q: How often should I replace my thermostat?

A: Most experts recommend replacing your thermostat every 50,000 to 75,000 miles. However, if you’re experiencing engine overheating issues, you may need to replace it sooner.