Thermostat Temperature

Q: The thermostat that’s in my car right now is 160 degrees. My friend told me to put in a 195 degree thermostat. Isn’t it better to have the engine running cooler?

A: The powertrain control module (computer) and other engine sensors are designed to maintain the best combustion efficiency when the engine is at the optimal operating temperature. The purpose of the thermostat is to get the engine up to and maintain the optimal temperature. You should find out the temperature of thermostat that was originally installed in the vehicle and stick with that. Go to your local auto parts store and they can tell you. Most automobiles have a 195 degree Fahrenheit thermostat installed from the factory. Installing the incorrect thermostat can decrease fuel economy.