How Does a Failed Thermostat Affect the Performance of Your Audi in Las Vegas?

Audi is known for its superior manufacturing and advanced technology. If you own an Audi, you know that driving it is a privilege and you want to keep it performing flawlessly. If your thermostat fails, the engine will not operate within its ideal temperature range. In turn, this will affect the -performance of your vehicle.

What is a Thermostat?

A thermostat is a valve that controls the engine’s temperature. The thermostat will stay closed if the engine is cold. This blocks the flow of coolant to the radiator allowing the engine to warm up quicker. After the engine reaches the desired temperature the thermostat will open up. This allows the coolant to enter the radiator, so it can prevent the car from overheating.

Important Functions of the Thermostat

Thermostats constantly monitor the temperature and regulate the flow of the coolant so that the engine maintains optimum operating temperature. There are 2 main functions of the thermostat: accelerating the warm up of the engine and regulating the engine temperature.

Importance of Opening and Closing of the Thermostat

Thermostats usually fail without warning. If you have a bad thermostat, there are 2 different problems that can happen. Either the thermostat will stay open, or it will stay closed. The opening and closing of the thermostat are critical in maintaining engine temperature.

If the thermostat stays open, the engine is kept cool and it is never allowed to reach optimum running temperature.

If the thermostat stays closed, the coolant will not be circulated through the radiator. This will cause the engine to overheat.

Symptoms of a Bad Thermostat

Overheating: The most common symptom of a bad thermostat is overheating. It’s always important to pay attention to your gauges. If your temperature gauge is running hot and is reading in the red do not drive it. There is a good chance that your thermostat is stuck closed and the coolant isn’t circulating. This can result in major engine damage and it can happen quickly.

Low-Temperature Reading: If your temperature gauge is running low, and you have been driving for a few minutes, this is a sign that the thermostat is stuck open. The engine is getting too much coolant. This can also lead to engine damage.

Temperature Reading is Erratic: In some instances, the thermostat doesn’t get stuck in just one position. This will prohibit the coolant from flowing properly. This will lead to reduced engine performance as well as poor gas mileage and engine damage.

Coolant Leaks: If the thermostat is stuck in the closed position and it isn’t allowing the coolant to circulate, it can lead to coolant leak around the thermostat housing. Eventually, it will affect other coolant hoses and you will notice fluid on the ground under your Audi.

Continuing to Drive with a Bad Thermostat

A thermostat that has failed and is stuck closed can cause your engine to overheat resulting in major damage. Do not drive your car if it is running hot. You will need to have it towed to a professional Audi repair shop so you do not cause any additional damage.

If your thermostat is stuck open, you will experience poor performance and fuel economy. If you are running your heater, you may also notice that it doesn’t get as hot as it should. Having the thermostat stuck to open will not damage the engine as quickly as is if were shut. You can still drive it, but you need to have it fixed as soon as you can.

About Us

European Motor Cars has serviced the Las Vegas area for over 30 years. Our mechanics are experts in their field and can take care of your European car service needs. Each technician is factory-trained and Master Status certified. You can rest assured knowing that you are going to get the service that you are looking for.

Call us today to schedule your service appointment. Here at European Motor Cars, we service Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Porsche, Range Rover, Volvo, and Volkswagen. We are conveniently located near the cities of Spring Valley, Summerlin, Henderson, and North Las Vegas. You can reach us on 702-367-7140 or come see us at 3440 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, NV.