Parts for your 2013 Subaru Xv-Thermostat housing

2013 Subaru XV Thermostat Housing

Based on Subaru’s factory service manual for the GP-chassis Impreza/XV with the FB20 2.0‑litre engine, the thermostat sits in a dedicated housing (often called the thermostat cover) that bolts to the water pump at the lower radiator hose connection. Subaru’s FAST parts catalogue and common workshop guides confirm this assembly and sealing O‑ring are serviceable items on the 2013 Subaru XV. So yes, a thermostat housing is fitted and it’s absolutely relevant to cooling system maintenance on this model.

The thermostat housing on the 2013 Subaru XV keeps the thermostat securely located, seals the coolant path, and directs flow from the lower radiator hose into the water pump. It plays a quiet but critical role: helping the engine warm up smartly, then holding it at the sweet‑spot temperature for performance, economy, and long engine life. If the housing warps, the seal hardens, or the thermostat sticks, you’ll often see weeping at the lower hose flange, slow warm‑up, overheating, or a check engine light for low coolant temp (like P0128). Under the bonnet, it’s down low at the front of the engine—easy enough to spot where the lower hose meets the pump.

During servicing, it’s smart to inspect the housing and clamp area for stains or dried coolant, and squeeze the lower hose to check for brittleness. If there’s any doubt, replacing the thermostat, its O‑ring, and the housing as a set is cheap insurance. Most FB20s use an alloy cover with a shaped seal, some builds and aftermarket kits may be plastic—either way, stick with OEM‑quality parts and a fresh gasket/O‑ring.

Handy tips when replacing:

• Start cold, drain coolant cleanly, and remove the lower hose and housing bolts.
• Clean mating faces, seat the new thermostat with the bleed pin at 12 o’clock, and fit a new O‑ring—no RTV unless the manual specifies.
• Tighten housing bolts evenly to the service‑manual torque (typically single‑digit N·m).
• Refill with Subaru‑approved long‑life (blue) coolant, heater on HOT, and bleed air thoroughly. A vacuum filler is ideal.

If the XV is racking up kilometres or there’s any cooling system work underway (pump, hoses, radiator), bundling a new thermostat and housing saves time and prevents repeat coolant drains. Dispose of old coolant responsibly—pets and wildlife find it toxic, even in small spills.

Popular questions about the 2013 Subaru XV thermostat housing

Where is the thermostat housing located on a 2013 Subaru XV?
It’s mounted low at the front of the engine on the water pump, right where the lower radiator hose connects. Look under the front of the vehicle or remove the under‑tray for easier access.

What are the signs the thermostat housing or thermostat needs attention?
Coolant seepage around the lower hose flange, frequent top‑ups, engine running cool or hot, weak cabin heat, or a check engine light for low temperature are common clues. Any of these warrant a pressure test and close inspection of the housing, seal, and thermostat.

Should the thermostat be replaced with the housing?
Yes—on the XV it’s good practice to replace the thermostat, O‑ring, and housing together if there’s leakage, corrosion, or age‑related wear. It’s a small extra cost that helps ensure stable temperatures and long‑term reliability.