Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander-Thermostat

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Thermostat — What it does and how to look after it

Referencing technical sources, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander does use a thermostat. The Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for the model year (Cooling System – Thermostat), the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue, and well-known aftermarket catalogues (including Gates, Dayco, and Stant/Motorad) all list a dedicated thermostat and seal for the 2013 Outlander’s engines (2.0 and 2.4 petrol, 2.2 diesel, and market-specific V6). So, the thermostat is relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

The thermostat’s job is to help the Outlander get up to operating temperature quickly, then hold it steady for reliable performance. When the engine’s cold, the thermostat stays shut so coolant circulates within the engine, speeding warm-up. Once it’s at temp, the thermostat opens and lets coolant flow through the radiator to shed heat. That stable temperature sweet spot means better fuel economy, fewer emissions, stronger heater performance on chilly mornings, and long engine life.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for the thermostat on a 2013 Outlander, but it’s smart to check its behaviour any time the cooling system is serviced. Common warning signs include slow warm-up, lukewarm cabin heat, a temp gauge that wanders, the radiator fan running more than usual, or a check engine light with a P0128 code. If it sticks closed, the engine can overheat quickly — that’s a tow-home situation, not a “she’ll be right” moment.

When replacing the thermostat, use a genuine-quality unit with a fresh O-ring or gasket. Work on a dead-cold engine, relieve any pressure, and drain enough coolant to drop the level below the housing. Clean the mating faces, fit the new thermostat in the correct orientation, and torque the housing bolts to the factory spec. Refill with the correct coolant type (Mitsubishi Super Long Life/AS 2108 Type A equivalent) mixed with demineralised water as required. Bleed air from the system (heater on full hot) and confirm the fan cycles properly with no leaks. Dispose of old coolant responsibly — it’s nasty for pets and the environment.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth:

• Inspecting for crusty deposits around the housing and hoses
• Checking warm-up time and heater output on a cold start
• Refreshing coolant at the recommended interval and testing the radiator cap

Done right, the Outlander’s thermostat is a fit-and-forget item that keeps temperatures spot on, whether it’s city commuting or a long Kiwi or Aussie roadie.

Does the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander have a thermostat?
Yes. All 2013 Outlander engines use a wax-pellet engine coolant thermostat in the housing attached to a radiator hose connection at the engine. It regulates temperature for drivability, efficiency, and engine protection.

Where is the thermostat located on a 2013 Outlander?
It’s typically housed where one of the main radiator hoses meets the engine, secured by a small housing with a few bolts and an O-ring seal. Exact placement varies slightly by engine, so a quick look under the bonnet or a peek at the workshop manual will point to the correct housing.

How can someone tell if their thermostat is failing?
Slow warm-up, poor heater performance, fluctuating temperature readings, or a MIL with P0128 suggest it’s stuck open. Rapid overheating or pressure build-up can indicate it’s stuck closed. Any of these signs warrant inspection and likely replacement.