Parts for your 2013 Volvo Xc60-Thermostat

2013 Volvo XC60 Thermostat — Fitted, Function, and Service Advice

Technical sources confirm a thermostat is fitted to the 2013 Volvo XC60. Volvo VIDA workshop information and the 2013 XC60 Genuine Parts Catalogue list an engine coolant thermostat integrated into a housing on all available engines (D4/D5 2.4 five‑cylinder diesel, T5/T6 petrol, and 3.2 petrol). Typical genuine assemblies include examples such as 31355151 (T6 3.0), 31293698 (D5 2.4D), and 31293695 (3.2 I6). Major aftermarket application catalogues from OE suppliers (e.g., Mahle/Behr, Gates) match these fitments. So yes—this model uses a thermostat, and it’s a key part of the cooling system.

The thermostat on the 2013 Volvo XC60 quietly manages coolant flow so the engine reaches and maintains its sweet spot—roughly the low‑to‑mid‑90s °C—without fuss. When it’s cold, the thermostat stays shut to speed warm‑up, keeping fuel use in check and the heater working quicker on chilly mornings. As the temperature climbs, it opens in stages to feed the radiator, holding things steady under the bonnet whether it’s a school run or a long slog up the Crown Range. On many XC60 engines the thermostat is part of a combined housing with the coolant temperature sensor, designed to seal neatly with O‑rings and cut down on leaks.

There isn’t a strict kilometre‑based replacement interval, but this part lives a hard life. Replace it when there are symptoms, during major cooling‑system work, or as preventative maintenance on higher‑kilometre vehicles. Tell‑tales include:

• Slow warm‑up or the gauge sitting low (stuck open)
• Overheating or temperature swings (sticking or stuck closed)
• Poor cabin heat, high fuel use, rich‑running codes like P0128, or frequent DPF regens on diesels
• Coolant seepage around the housing or perished O‑rings

Replacement is straightforward with the right steps and a cool engine. Expect to:

1. Safely depressurise the system and drain enough coolant
2. Remove intake ducting or the airbox for access
3. Unplug the sensor and undo the housing fasteners
4. Fit the new assembly with fresh seals, following VIDA torque specs
5. Refill with Volvo‑approved coolant (50/50 demin water mix if not premix)
6. Bleed by running at fast idle with the heater on full hot, top up as needed

It pays to check the expansion tank cap and hoses while you’re there, and to record coolant type and litres added. A tidy install and a proper bleed will keep the XC60’s temperature behaviour rock‑solid, protect the head gasket, and help the engine deliver its best economy and performance across Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Popular questions about the 2013 Volvo XC60 thermostat

Is the thermostat a separate insert or a full housing on this model?
This XC60 typically uses an integrated thermostat housing that includes the valve, seals, and often the coolant temperature sensor. Replacing the whole assembly is the recommended approach for reliable sealing and correct operation, rather than trying to swap just the wax element.

What are the classic signs the thermostat needs replacing on a 2013 XC60?
Common clues are slow warm‑up, the temp gauge sitting below normal, weak cabin heat, or fluctuating temperatures. On diesels, repeated DPF regens and higher fuel use are frequent side‑effects of a thermostat stuck open. Any overheating or coolant leaks near the housing also warrant attention.

What coolant should be used after replacing the thermostat?
Use a Volvo‑approved OAT/HOAT coolant suitable for late‑model Volvos. In AU/NZ, a genuine pre‑mix is ideal, otherwise mix concentrate 50/50 with demineralised water. Avoid blending different coolant chemistries, and always bleed the system thoroughly to prevent airlocks.