How to Change the Thermostat on a 2016 Silverado

The thermostat in your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado plays a crucial role in regulating the engine’s temperature. It opens and closes to allow coolant to flow between the engine and the radiator, ensuring the engine runs at an optimal temperature. Over time, thermostats can wear out or malfunction, leading to overheating or underheating issues. Replacing the thermostat is a relatively simple process, and you can do it at home with the right tools and instructions.

In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to change the thermostat on a 2016 Silverado, along with tips for a successful installation.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

Before starting the thermostat replacement, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• New Thermostat: Make sure to buy a thermostat that is compatible with your 2016 Silverado.
• Coolant: You’ll need fresh coolant to top off the system after the replacement.
• Ratchet and Socket Set: These will be used to remove bolts and secure the new thermostat.
• Torque Wrench: This is used to ensure proper torque when tightening bolts.
• Gasket or O-ring: Depending on the type of thermostat you purchase, it may come with a new gasket or O-ring.
• Pliers: For removing hose clamps.
• Drain Pan: To catch the old coolant when you remove the thermostat.
• Safety Gloves and Goggles: For protection when working with coolant and engine components.
• Shop Towels: To clean up any spilled coolant or debris.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change the Thermostat on a 2016 Silverado

Step 1: Allow the Engine to Cool

Before working on your Silverado’s cooling system, it’s crucial to ensure that the engine is completely cool. Working on a hot engine can be dangerous, as hot coolant can cause burns. Let your truck sit for a few hours to allow the engine and coolant to cool down.

• Tip: Open the hood of the truck to help the engine cool more quickly. You can also remove the radiator cap (only if the engine is cold) to release any built-up pressure in the system.

Step 2: Drain the Coolant

To change the thermostat, you’ll need to drain some of the coolant from the system. This step prevents coolant from spilling when you remove the thermostat housing.

1. Locate the Radiator Drain Plug: Underneath the radiator, you’ll find a drain plug. Position a drain pan beneath the plug to catch the coolant.
2. Open the Drain Plug: Use pliers or your hand to open the drain plug. Allow the coolant to drain into the pan. If you’re only replacing the thermostat, you don’t need to drain the entire system—just enough to lower the coolant level below the thermostat housing.
3. Close the Drain Plug: Once enough coolant has been drained, close the drain plug to prevent further leakage.

• Tip: Coolant is toxic, so make sure to dispose of the old coolant properly at a local recycling center.

Step 3: Locate the Thermostat Housing

The thermostat housing is typically located near the top of the engine block, where the upper radiator hose connects to the engine. In the 2016 Silverado, it’s a metal or plastic cover that holds the thermostat in place.

1. Locate the Upper Radiator Hose: Follow the upper radiator hose to where it connects to the engine block. The point where the hose meets the engine is where the thermostat housing is located.
2. Remove the Hose Clamp: Use pliers or a screwdriver (depending on the type of clamp) to loosen the hose clamp. Once loose, slide the clamp back along the hose to get it out of the way.
3. Disconnect the Hose: Carefully pull the upper radiator hose away from the thermostat housing. Be prepared for some coolant to drip out of the hose.

Step 4: Remove the Thermostat Housing

With the radiator hose out of the way, you can now remove the thermostat housing.

1. Remove the Bolts: Using a ratchet and socket, remove the bolts holding the thermostat housing in place. Be sure to keep track of the bolts so they don’t get lost.
2. Remove the Housing: Once the bolts are removed, gently pull the thermostat housing off the engine. Be careful not to damage the gasket or surrounding components.
3. Take Out the Old Thermostat: Inside the housing, you’ll see the old thermostat. Remove it from its position. If it’s stuck, use a screwdriver to gently pry it loose.

Step 5: Install the New Thermostat

Now that the old thermostat has been removed, you can install the new one.

1. Clean the Housing and Engine Surface: Use a shop towel to clean the mating surfaces of the thermostat housing and engine block. Remove any old gasket material or debris to ensure a proper seal for the new thermostat.
2. Install the New Gasket or O-ring: If your new thermostat comes with a gasket or O-ring, install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure it’s seated correctly to prevent leaks.
3. Insert the New Thermostat: Place the new thermostat in the engine block, making sure it’s oriented in the correct direction. The end with the spring should face toward the engine.

• Tip: Pay attention to any alignment tabs or marks on the thermostat to ensure it fits properly.

Step 6: Reinstall the Thermostat Housing

With the new thermostat in place, it’s time to reinstall the housing.

1. Position the Housing: Align the thermostat housing with the bolt holes and press it against the engine block.
2. Secure the Bolts: Use your ratchet and socket to thread the bolts back into place. Tighten them by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
3. Torque the Bolts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. Over-tightening the bolts can damage the housing, while under-tightening can lead to leaks.

Step 7: Reconnect the Radiator Hose

With the thermostat housing secured, reconnect the upper radiator hose.

1. Slide the Hose onto the Housing: Push the radiator hose back onto the thermostat housing, making sure it’s fully seated.
2. Tighten the Hose Clamp: Slide the hose clamp back into place and tighten it using pliers or a screwdriver. Ensure the clamp is tight enough to prevent leaks.

Step 8: Refill the Coolant

Now that the new thermostat is installed, you’ll need to refill the coolant that was drained earlier.

1. Remove the Radiator Cap: If you haven’t already, remove the radiator cap.
2. Add Coolant: Slowly pour fresh coolant into the radiator until it reaches the fill line. You may need to add coolant to the overflow reservoir as well.

• Tip: Use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water, or purchase pre-mixed coolant for convenience.

1. Bleed the Air: To remove any air trapped in the cooling system, start the engine and let it run with the radiator cap off. Watch for air bubbles and continue adding coolant as needed until the system is full.

Step 9: Test the New Thermostat

Once the coolant is topped off, it’s important to test the new thermostat to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

1. Start the Engine: With the radiator cap still off, start the engine and let it idle. Monitor the temperature gauge to make sure the engine reaches its normal operating temperature.
2. Check for Leaks: While the engine is running, inspect the thermostat housing and radiator hose for any signs of leaks.
3. Monitor Coolant Level: After the engine reaches operating temperature, check the coolant level again and top it off if necessary.

Step 10: Reinstall the Radiator Cap

Once you’re confident that the thermostat is functioning properly and there are no leaks, reinstall the radiator cap.

• Tip: Take your truck for a short test drive to verify that the engine stays at the correct temperature and the AC and heater function as expected.

Common Issues to Watch Out For

When replacing the thermostat on your 2016 Silverado, there are a few potential issues to be aware of:

• Air Pockets in the Cooling System: If air gets trapped in the cooling system, it can cause the engine to overheat. Make sure to bleed the system properly after replacing the thermostat.
• Leaking Gasket: If the gasket or O-ring isn’t seated correctly, you may experience coolant leaks. Always double-check the gasket placement before tightening the thermostat housing.
• Incorrect Thermostat Orientation: Installing the thermostat backward can cause engine overheating. Make sure the spring end faces the engine during installation.

Conclusion

Changing the thermostat on a 2016 Silverado is a straightforward process that can be done at home with basic tools. By following these steps, you can replace a faulty thermostat and restore your truck’s cooling system to its proper function. Regular maintenance of your cooling system is essential to preventing engine overheating and prolonging the life of your vehicle.

If you’re ever unsure about the process or encounter issues during the replacement, it’s always a good idea to consult your vehicle’s service manual or seek assistance from a professional mechanic.