Parts for your 2013 Volkswagen Amarok-Thermostat

2013 Volkswagen Amarok Thermostat

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Volkswagen Amarok is fitted with a dedicated engine coolant thermostat. Volkswagen’s ElsaWin workshop manual for Amarok (Cooling system – Thermostat: removal/installation), the Volkswagen ETKA genuine parts catalogue (Group 12 – Engine cooling – thermostat housing for Amarok 2H, 2013), and VW Self‑Study Programmes covering the 2.0 TDI common‑rail engines and Amarok cooling layout all describe a wax‑element thermostat integrated into a housing on the cylinder head. On BiTDI variants there’s typically an additional thermostat for the EGR cooler, and some automatic models use a transmission oil thermostat within the cooler circuit.

For the 2013 Amarok, the thermostat’s job is to get the engine up to operating temperature quickly, then keep it steady for efficiency, performance, and heater output. It stays closed when the engine is cold to circulate coolant internally, then opens around the specified temperature to route flow through the radiator. That consistent temp helps fuel economy, reduces emissions, and prevents overcooling on highway runs or in cold Kiwi and Aussie conditions.

As part of regular servicing, the thermostat isn’t a routine replacement item, but it’s smart to assess it whenever cooling work is done or if symptoms pop up. Common signs include slow warm‑up, a temperature gauge that wanders, weak cabin heat, or overheating under load. On the BiTDI, a sticking EGR cooler thermostat can also skew temps and set fault codes.

• Best practice during cooling system service:
  1. Pressure test and check warm‑up time and gauge stability.
  2. Inspect the thermostat housing for seepage and ageing plastic.
  3. Replace the thermostat and seal/O‑ring if there’s any doubt, especially when doing a water pump, timing belt/drive service, or after an overheating event.
• Use the correct VW‑approved coolant (G12++/G13 or supersession), mixed to spec, and bleed the system thoroughly to avoid air pockets.
• Tighten fasteners to workshop‑specified torque to protect the plastic housing.

Owners who tow, work the ute hard, or drive in hot outback conditions benefit from a cooling system check each service. A healthy thermostat helps the Amarok warm up crisply on a winter morning in Dunedin and stay cool hauling gear across the Pilbara.

Popular questions about the 2013 Volkswagen Amarok thermostat

What are the symptoms of a failing thermostat on a 2013 Amarok?
Typical signs are a temp gauge that sits low or fluctuates, slow cabin heat, engine taking ages to warm up, or overheating at speed. Fault codes for coolant temperature plausibility can also appear. If the EGR cooler thermostat sticks, idle and warm‑up behaviour may be off even if the main gauge looks normal.

How often should the thermostat be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Many last years, but replacement is recommended if there are symptoms, leaks at the housing, or whenever the cooling system is opened for major work (water pump, timing drive, radiator). Preventative replacement is common beyond 150,000 km or in vehicles used for heavy towing.

Can the Amarok be driven with a bad thermostat?
It’s not advised. Stuck‑closed risks overheating and engine damage, stuck‑open causes overcooling, poor fuel economy, and higher emissions. If issues are suspected, minimise driving and have the cooling system inspected promptly.