Changing the thermostat and its housing on Ford Fiesta IV - 1.3i

The thermostat is in the flange that sits between the cylinder head cover and the engine mount.

Place a drain pan under the vehicle to collect the water that will drain.

Using a large flathead screwdriver, unscrew the drain plug located at the bottom of the driver's side cooling radiator.

Unscrew the drain plug completely to purge the circuit.

Place a rag around the hose to absorb the little liquid that will flow out when you remove it.

Using a pair of pliers, remove the hose clamp.

Remove the hose by pulling on it.

Using a pair of pliers, remove the hose clamp.

Do not remove the hose yet.

The case is held in by 2 screws. You need a 10mm socket to remove them.

Now you can remove the hose by pulling on it.

Remove the thermostat by pulling on it.

Using a cutter, clean the joint plane

New parts

Old coins

Check that the trigger temperatures are the same. Here 92°C.

Groove into which the thermostat will be inserted.

Here's what you should absolutely not do!!!

If you place the paper gasket before the thermostat, it will not fit fully into the groove and it will leak.

I decided to use the rubber gasket but the paper one would have worked.

To summarize, you only need to use one gasket. You place the thermostat in the groove then the gasket then you replace the housing .

There is no bleeder screw on this model. The expansion tank being the highest point the air escapes through the return pipe.

If you haven't already done so, close the drain plug.

Consider purchasing coolant that meets the manufacturer's standards.

Fill the jar to the max level and check that there are no leaks at the hose and the drain plug.

Start the engine and let it run.

Now that the fluid is under pressure and circulating, double check for leaks at the hose and drain plug.

Let the temperature rise until the cooling fan starts.

Wait for the engine to cool down and then top up. The level should be between the Min and Max marks.