Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Thermostat

Understanding the Thermostat in a 2016 Subaru Exiga: Purpose and Maintenance Tips

The 2016 Subaru Exiga, a reliable and versatile people mover, does indeed have a thermostat fitted as part of its cooling system. Contrary to some automotive models that might utilise electric cooling valves or rely solely on variable speed fans, the Exiga sticks with the traditional thermostat setup. This mechanical valve plays a key role in maintaining the engine's optimal operating temperature, which is critical for both performance and longevity.

So why does the 2016 Subaru Exiga use a thermostat? In simple terms, the thermostat acts as a gatekeeper for the engine coolant, controlling the flow of coolant from the engine to the radiator. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, preventing coolant from circulating through the radiator. This allows the engine to warm up more quickly. Once the engine reaches its ideal operating temperature, typically around 88 to 93 degrees Celsius, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through the radiator where it is cooled before returning to the engine. This cycle ensures the engine doesn't overheat or run too cold, both of which can negatively affect efficiency, emissions, and engine wear.

Now, for owners of a 2016 Subaru Exiga, understanding the importance of the thermostat can help with effective vehicle maintenance and avoid unnecessary headaches. Thermostats can wear out or get stuck open or closed over time. A stuck-closed thermostat means coolant can't flow to the radiator, resulting in engine overheating. This is risky and can cause severe engine damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. On the other hand, a stuck-open thermostat causes the engine to run cooler than normal, which can lead to poor fuel economy, increased engine wear, and higher emissions since the oil and combustion chamber do not reach their intended temperature.

When servicing a 2016 Subaru Exiga, it's a good idea to have the thermostat checked, especially if there are cooling system concerns or if the vehicle's temperature gauge is behaving oddly. While the thermostat is generally a reliable component, it's not uncommon for it to fail after about 100,000 kilometres or more, particularly in vehicles exposed to harsh climates or inconsistent cooling system maintenance.

Here are a few signals that might suggest a thermostat check or replacement is needed:

• Engine temperature gauge fluctuates unusually or remains low after extended driving
• Overheating warnings or the engine temperature rising rapidly
• Heater blowing cold air inside the cabin, despite the engine running for a while
• Coolant leaks around the thermostat housing or unusual corrosion signs

While some motorists might be tempted to delay replacing a faulty thermostat, keeping it in good working order makes a big difference to the 2016 Subaru Exiga's overall performance and engine health. The good news is thermostat replacement isn't usually a costly or complicated job. It involves draining some coolant, removing the thermostat housing, swapping out the old thermostat, and refilling the system with fresh coolant. Subaru designs their engines with reasonably accessible thermostat locations, making this a straightforward task for professional mechanics and handy DIYers alike.

Proper maintenance extends beyond just swapping the thermostat itself. When replacing this part, it's wise to inspect the entire cooling system to ensure hoses, radiator caps, and coolant are all in good condition. Flushing and refilling the coolant as per Subaru's service schedule helps prevent corrosion and blockages that could affect the thermostat's performance.

Keeping an eye on how the 2016 Subaru Exiga heats up not only protects the engine but also ensures a comfortable cabin environment for you and your passengers. The thermostat's function might seem like a small cog in the bigger picture, but without it, the vehicle's engine performance and fuel efficiency would suffer. Regular servicing and paying attention to temperature irregularities can help avoid costly repairs down the track.

Ultimately, the thermostat in a 2016 Subaru Exiga serves as the unsung hero of the cooling system. By managing the flow of coolant at the right time, it keeps the engine running smoothly and efficiently. Just like any critical engine component, it deserves a bit of attention during regular servicing. For owners who want to keep their Subaru Exiga running strong for years to come, having the thermostat checked and maintained is an easy step with great benefits.