Parts for your 2013 Nissan Dualis-Thermostat

2013 Nissan Dualis thermostat – what it does and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Nissan Dualis is fitted with a standard engine thermostat. The Nissan J10 Series Electronic Service Manual (Cooling System section) specifies a wax‑pellet thermostat in the coolant outlet on MR20DE engines used in the Dualis. Nissan’s FAST parts catalogue lists a thermostat assembly for J10 VIN ranges, and major aftermarket catalogues (Dayco and Gates) supply direct‑fit thermostats for 2007–2013 Dualis/Qashqai models. That makes the thermostat very much relevant to this vehicle.

On a 2013 Dualis, the thermostat’s job is simple but critical: it controls coolant flow so the engine warms up quickly and then stays in its sweet spot, typically the mid‑80s to low‑90s °C. That steady temperature means better fuel economy, smoother running, lower emissions, and decent heater performance on chilly mornings. Under the bonnet, the thermostat sits near the lower radiator hose at the engine’s water outlet, opening as the coolant reaches operating temp and closing as it cools.

• Tell‑tale signs of a dodgy thermostat include slow warm‑up, temp gauge wandering, poor cabin heat, fans cycling oddly, overheating, or a P0128 fault code.
• It’s not a routine “every X km” replacement, it’s changed when it fails or during bigger cooling‑system jobs like a water pump or radiator swap.

Good servicing keeps the cooling system happy. Stick with the correct Nissan long‑life coolant (Blue LLC or an approved equivalent), don’t mix colours, and refresh coolant per the service schedule. Check hoses, clamps and the thermostat housing for crusty deposits or weeps. Any time the system’s opened, use a fresh O‑ring/gasket and the proper bolt torque to avoid leaks.

1. Let the engine cool fully before cracking the cap. Hot coolant under pressure can cause nasty burns.
2. Have the new thermostat and O‑ring ready. A light smear of coolant on the O‑ring helps it seat. Don’t slather RTV unless the manual calls for it.
3. Top up with the specified coolant, heater set to hot, and bleed air thoroughly. Squeezing the upper hose and using the bleed point (if fitted) helps burp bubbles.
4. Run until fans cycle, watch the gauge sit steady near halfway, and check for leaks after a short drive.

DIYers with basic spanners can usually handle this in an hour or two under the bonnet, but seized fasteners or airlocks can stretch the job. If in doubt, a trusted workshop can pressure‑test, diagnose, and replace the thermostat while ensuring the Dualis is bled and back to normal temps.

Popular questions about 2013 Nissan Dualis thermostats

What temperature does the Dualis thermostat open at?
For MR20DE‑equipped Dualis models, the thermostat typically starts opening in the low‑to‑mid 80s °C and is fully open by the low‑to‑mid 90s °C. On the dash, that translates to the needle settling around the middle once warmed up.

How long does a thermostat replacement take?
Usually 1–2 hours with basic tools. Access, stuck bolts, or extra bleeding time can add a bit. Many owners combine it with a coolant service to save repeat labour and ensure fresh fluid throughout.

Is it okay to keep driving with a stuck‑open thermostat?
It’ll often run cool, using more fuel, producing higher emissions, and giving poor heater performance. Extended driving like that isn’t ideal and can cause extra engine wear over time, so it’s best to sort it sooner rather than later.