Best Car Engine Thermostats of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Car engine thermostats are an essential component of any vehicle's cooling system. These small but mighty devices regulate the temperature of the engine by controlling the flow of coolant. By maintaining a consistent operating temperature, the thermostat helps prevent engine damage and improves fuel efficiency. Most thermostats are designed to open at a specific temperature, allowing coolant to flow through the engine and maintain the desired temperature. When the engine is shut off, the thermostat closes to retain heat and prevent damage from freezing. With a wide variety of options available, it's easy to find the right thermostat for any vehicle.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MotoRad 2000-195 Thermostat Cover #TOP 1
MotoRad 2000-195 Thermostat
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ROVIKE Thermostat for Honda & Acura Vehicles Cover #TOP 2
ROVIKE Thermostat for Honda & Acura Vehicles
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ROVIKE Thermostat for Toyota and Lexus Vehicles Cover #TOP 3
ROVIKE Thermostat for Toyota and Lexus Vehicles
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Car Engine Thermostats

#TOP 1

MotoRad 2000-195 Thermostat

2000-195
Silver
MotoRad 2000-195 Thermostat Cover
MotoRad 2000-195 High Performance Thermostat Engine Coolant Thermostat Fits Jeep Wrangler 87–06 Grand Cherokee 93–04 Ford F-150 75–97 Ranger 91–08 Mustang 64–04 Taurus 86-07 Dodge Ram 1500 94–03

The MotoRad 2000-195 High Performance Thermostat features a larger than OEM opening which can allow for up to 50 percent increase in coolant flow. Its triple bridge opening design offers increased stability and strength. The copper case and wax compound assure rapid response to temperature changes in the coolant. Its offset design, air relief valve and OEM style seals included where applicable. This thermostat is manufactured from high quality components to meet the demanding conditions of the automotive cooling system.

What We Like
Easy installation process
Maintains correct temperature
High performance and reliability
Excellent fit for vehicles
Good price for quality
What We Don't Like
Challenging installation location
Minor design differences
#TOP 2

ROVIKE Thermostat for Honda & Acura Vehicles

19301-PAA-306
Gold
ROVIKE Thermostat for Honda & Acura Vehicles Cover
Thermostat for 1988-2015 Honda Civic, Accord, CRV, CRZ, CRX, City,Odyssey,Prelude,HR-V,FIT, Insight & 1986-2014 Acura CL, EL, ILX, Integra, Legend Replaces 19301-PAA-306, 19301-PLC-315, 19301-RNA-315

The ROVIKE Honda Acura Thermostat is a reliable replacement part designed to fit a wide range of Honda and Acura models from the late 1980s through the mid-2010s. Before shipping, each thermostat undergoes thorough testing to ensure it meets strict quality standards, giving you confidence in its performance. This part is compatible with many popular models, so you can easily find one that matches your vehicle. Made from durable, premium materials, it promises long-lasting use and dependable operation. Plus, it’s a direct replacement, making installation straightforward and hassle-free for you.

What We Like
Easy installation
Perfect fit for Honda Civic
Affordable price
Includes gasket
Solid build quality
What We Don't Like
Occasional defective unit
Challenging installation for some models
#TOP 3

ROVIKE Thermostat for Toyota and Lexus Vehicles

782901674626
Gold
ROVIKE Thermostat for Toyota and Lexus Vehicles Cover
Thermostat for Toyota Camry, Corolla, Sienna, Tacoma, Highlander, Rav4, 4runner, Tundra, Avalon, Celica, Hiace, Hilux, Matrix, Mr2, Solara, Venza, T100 Replaces 90916-A3003, 90916-03129

The ROVIKE Engine Thermostat is a reliable replacement part designed for a wide range of Toyota, Lexus, and Scion models. It is made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and long-lasting performance, giving you peace of mind. The thermostat is rigorously tested before shipping, so you can trust that it will work properly once installed. Its direct replacement design means you can easily install it without hassle, saving you time and effort. Plus, it's compatible with many popular vehicle models and years, but be sure to double-check your car’s specific part number and model for a perfect fit.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Extensive vehicle compatibility
Easy installation
Pre-shipment testing
What We Don't Like
Fitment issues for 2000 Camry
Smaller than original parts
#TOP 4

MotoRad 7200-180 Fail-Safe Thermostat for Cars

7200-180
Silver
MotoRad 7200-180 Fail-Safe Thermostat for Cars Cover
MotoRad 7200-180 Fail-Safe Thermostat, Silver

This thermostat is designed to fit your vehicle specifically and is a reliable option for your car engine. It falls under the category of car engine thermostats.

What We Like
Fail-safe open feature
Engine overheat prevention
Compatible fit for many vehicles
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Durability concerns
Packing could be improved
#TOP 5

ACDelco Gold 15-11125G Thermostat

15-11125G
Black
ACDelco Gold 15-11125G Thermostat Cover
ACDelco Gold 15-11125G (19474058) Engine Coolant Thermostat

The ACDelco Gold Thermostat is a reliable replacement part designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, especially General Motors models. Previously known under the ACDelco Professional line, this product maintains the trusted quality you expect from ACDelco. As a premium aftermarket option, it ensures your engine's cooling system works efficiently by regulating temperature correctly. Manufactured to meet specific standards for fit, form, and function, this thermostat offers you a hassle-free installation and dependable performance, making it a convenient choice for maintaining your vehicle’s engine health.

What We Like
Perfect OEM fit
Restores correct engine temperature
Easy installation process
Comes with gasket included
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Poor packaging quality
#TOP 6

MotoRad 2065-180 Thermostat

2065-180
Silver
MotoRad 2065-180 Thermostat Cover
MotoRad 2065-180 High Performance Thermostat

The MotoRad High Performance Thermostat is designed to meet the demanding conditions of the automotive cooling system. With its larger than OEM opening, it allows for up to a 50 percent increase in coolant flow, ensuring efficient cooling of your car's engine. The triple bridge opening design provides increased stability and strength, adding durability to the thermostat. Made from high-quality components, this thermostat features a copper case and wax compound that allows for rapid response to temperature changes in the coolant. The offset design, air relief valve, and OEM style seals included in this thermostat provide convenience and ensure a proper fit. Upgrade your car's cooling system with the MotoRad High Performance Thermostat and enjoy improved engine performance and longevity.

What We Like
Perfect fit for 6.8L V10
Works as expected
Improved engine cooling
Reliable in extreme temperatures
Good value purchase
What We Don't Like
Rubber gasket fitment issue
May require different O-ring
#TOP 7

MotoRad 416-180 Engine Thermostat

416-180
Silver
MotoRad 416-180 Engine Thermostat Cover
MotoRad 416-180 Thermostat with Seal Engine Coolant Thermostat Fits Ram 1500 11–23 Dodge Ram 1500 03–10 Charger 06–23 Challenger 08–23 Durango 04–23 Jeep Grand Cherokee 05–21 Commander 06-10

The MotoRad Engine Thermostat is designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, ensuring compatibility with many models from Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler. Before purchasing, you can easily verify fitment with Amazon ConfirmedFit, giving you peace of mind. This part is suitable for various Dodge models, including Ram 1500 and Charger, as well as select Jeep and Chrysler vehicles. Having a reliable thermostat helps maintain optimal engine temperature, preventing overheating and ensuring efficient engine performance. This product is a great choice for those looking to replace their thermostat with a high-quality option that fits their vehicle.

What We Like
Easy installation
Reliable engine temperature control
Durable build quality
Good value for price
Includes seal
What We Don't Like
Potential longevity concerns
May cause engine codes in some models
#TOP 8

GM Genuine Parts Engine Coolant Thermostat Water Inlet Assembly 15-11057

15-11057
Basic
GM Genuine Parts Engine Coolant Thermostat Water Inlet Assembly 15-11057 Cover
GM Genuine Parts 15-11057 (12600172) Engine Coolant Thermostat Water Inlet Assembly

The GM Genuine Thermostat Assembly helps you fix issues with leaking thermostat housings, which can prevent coolant leaks and keep your engine running smoothly. It also addresses engine overheating problems caused by a faulty thermostat, helping to protect your engine from damage. As a GM-recommended replacement, it matches the original factory part, ensuring you get the same quality and fit. Made with durable steel and built to GM's exact specifications, this thermostat assembly offers reliable performance and long-lasting use for your GM vehicle.

What We Like
Direct OEM fit
Complete kit included
Quality construction
Easy installation
Good value price
What We Don't Like
May not fit all models
Hardware not always included
#TOP 9

Gates OE Type Engine Coolant Thermostat

34198
Gates OE Type Engine Coolant Thermostat Cover
Gates 34198 OE Type Engine Coolant Thermostat

The Gates OE Type Engine Coolant Thermostat is designed to provide precise temperature control and an OEM-equivalent fit. It comes with quality-controlled factory calibration, which ensures the accuracy of opening and closing, regardless of pressure changes. Additionally, the jiggle pins for air venting, seals, and gaskets make these thermostats equivalent to the original equipment parts.

What We Like
Reliable brand quality
Perfect fit
No overheating issues
Easy installation
Good value
What We Don't Like
Potential long-term durability unknown
#TOP 10

Tecledsn High Performance Engine Thermostat for Honda and Acura

Tecledsn High Performance Engine Thermostat for Honda and Acura Cover
Car Thermostat, High Performance Automotive Replacement Engine Thermostat with Gasket, Auto Engine Coolant Thermostat Compatible with Honda Civic CRV CRZ, Replaces #19301-PAA-306, 19301-PLC-31

The Tecledsn Engine Thermostat is designed as a direct replacement for specific Honda and Acura models, making installation simple and hassle-free since it matches the original part’s size and specifications. Compatible with various Acura and Honda vehicles, this thermostat ensures you get the right fit for your car, avoiding compatibility issues. Made from durable stainless steel and copper, it offers excellent resistance to heat, rust, and corrosion, which means it will last longer and perform reliably. The thermostat also helps regulate your engine’s temperature by controlling coolant flow, which protects the engine from overheating or running too cold, keeping your vehicle running smoothly.

What We Like
Perfect fit for some vehicles
Easy installation
Quick shipping
What We Don't Like
Compatibility issues for some models
Short-term functionality for some users
Buying Guide Image

Some Factors You Should Know About Car Engine Thermostats

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's engine, choosing the right thermostat is crucial. The thermostat regulates the engine's temperature, ensuring it doesn't overheat or run too cold. With a wide range of thermostats available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is the best fit for your car. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a car engine thermostat.

Compatibility

The first and most important factor to consider is compatibility. Not all thermostats are suitable for all car models and engines. Before making a purchase, check the thermostat's compatibility with your vehicle's make and model. This information is usually available on the product's packaging or on the manufacturer's website.

Temperature range

The thermostat's temperature range is another important factor to consider. Most car engines operate at a temperature between 195-220 degrees Fahrenheit. Choose a thermostat with a temperature range that matches or slightly exceeds this range to ensure your engine is operating at its optimal temperature.

Material

Thermostats are typically made from either brass or composite materials. Brass thermostats are more durable and have a longer lifespan, but they may be more expensive. Composite thermostats are more affordable, but they may not last as long. Consider your budget and the longevity of the thermostat when choosing the material.

Brand

When it comes to car parts, it's always best to choose a reputable brand. Look for thermostats from well-known manufacturers with a good track record in the industry. Read reviews and do your research to ensure you're buying a high-quality product.

Cost

Cost is always a factor when it comes to car parts and maintenance. Consider your budget and shop around to find the best deal. Keep in mind that cheaper thermostats may not be as durable or reliable as more expensive options. It's important to strike a balance between cost and quality to ensure you're getting a good value for your money.

In conclusion, choosing the right car engine thermostat is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's engine. Consider compatibility, temperature range, material, brand, and cost when making your decision. A high-quality thermostat can help prevent overheating and ensure your engine is running at its optimal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the symptoms of a bad engine thermostat?

Symptoms of a bad engine thermostat include high temperature readings, erratic changes in temperature, leaking coolant, increased fuel consumption, and unusual noises. These signs indicate that the thermostat is not functioning properly and may need to be replaced.

2. How much does it cost to replace an engine thermostat?

The cost to replace an engine thermostat typically ranges from $200 to $500. However, the actual price may vary depending on the vehicle and specific circumstances. Complete replacement may cost an additional $50.

3. Can a car run with a bad thermostat?

It is not recommended to drive a car with a bad thermostat. Although the vehicle may still be able to move, operating it with a faulty thermostat can lead to engine overheating and potential damage to other parts of the vehicle.

4. How often do engine thermostats go bad?

Engine thermostats are designed to last around 100,000 miles or 10 years. However, factors such as driving conditions, such as hot weather or stop-and-go traffic, can impact the lifespan of a thermostat.

5. Is changing a car thermostat easy?

Replacing a car thermostat is generally considered an easy and inexpensive repair. In most cases, it can be done to resolve issues like overheating or lack of heat. It is a relatively straightforward process that does not require extensive expertise or diagnostics.

6. How long does it take a mechanic to replace a thermostat?

On average, a thermostat replacement takes about 1 hour, but it can be as quick as 30 minutes or longer for more complex cases. The time may vary depending on factors such as the accessibility of the part and whether it is stuck in place.

7. How do I know if my water pump or thermostat is bad?

Signs of a bad water pump include coolant leakage and engine overheating. Similarly, a failing thermostat can cause engine overheating. These symptoms indicate potential issues with the water pump or thermostat that may require attention.

8. How do I know if I need a new thermostat?

If your HVAC system does not turn on or respond to the thermostat, it could be a sign of a bad thermostat. Inability to switch between heating and cooling modes or failure to operate the system from the thermostat are indicators that a new thermostat may be needed.

9. Will an engine overheat without a thermostat?

Yes, an engine can overheat without a thermostat. The thermostat regulates the temperature of the engine block, and without it, the cooling system cannot effectively control the temperature. This can result in engine overheating.

10. Can I remove thermostat to stop overheating?

Removing the thermostat to stop overheating is not a recommended solution. While it may temporarily alleviate the issue, it does not fix the underlying problem. The thermostat plays a crucial role in regulating the engine temperature, and removing it does not address the root cause of the overheating.

Editor's Notes

During our car engine thermostat research, we found 24 car engine thermostat products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,583 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car engine thermostats list. We found that most customers choose car engine thermostats with an average price of $14.89.

The car engine thermostats are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car engine thermostats, including MotoRad, ROVIKE, ACDelco, GM GENUINE PARTS, Gates. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.

Car Engine Thermostats Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand MotoRad ROVIKE ROVIKE MotoRad ACDelco MotoRad MotoRad GM GENUINE PARTS Gates Tecledsn
Controller Type touch Hand Control Touch screen Google Assistant Push Button Push Button - - - -
Color Silver Gold Gold - Black Silver - - - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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