When to replace the Thermostat on your VW GOLF
Recommended replacement interval for the part category Engine thermostat : 50000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.9 D, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.9 TD, GTD, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.9 TDI, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.6, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.8, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.8, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.8 Syncro (1HX1), VW GOLF III (1H1) 2.0, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.6, VW GOLF III (1H1) 2.0 Syncro (1HX1), VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.9 TDI Syncro (1HX1), VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.9 TDI, VW GOLF III (1H1) 1.9 SDI View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

This video shows the replacement procedure of a similar car part on another vehicle

All the parts you need to replace – Thermostat for GOLF III (1H1) and other VW models
Tools
Replacement: engine thermostat – VW GOLF III (1H1). Tools you might need:
Torque wrench
Drive socket # 7
Drive socket # 10
Drive socket # 13
Ratchet wrench
Fluid container
Funnel
Fender cover
Replacement: engine thermostat – VW GOLF III (1H1). Tip from AUTODOC:
  • Check the condition of the coolant every time you replace the thermostat. Change the coolant if necessary.
  • Please note: all work on the car – VW GOLF III (1H1) – should be done with the engine switched off.
Carry out replacement in the following order:
  1. Step 1
    Open the hood.
    Step 2
    Use a fender protection cover to prevent damaging paintwork and plastic parts of the car.
    Step 3
    How to change Thermostat on Golf 3 1991 - free PDF and video manuals
    Unscrew the coolant reservoir cap.
  2. Step 4
    How to replace VW GOLF III (1H1) 2.8 VR6 1992 Thermostat - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Prepare a container for fluids.
  3. Step 5
    Golf 3 2.0 1993 Thermostat replacement: free workshop manuals
    Loosen the coolant hose clamp. Use a drive socket #7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  4. Step 6
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    Detach the coolant hose.
  5. Step 7
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    Drain the coolant from the engine.
    Replacement: engine thermostat – VW GOLF III (1H1). Tip:
    Caution! The coolant can be very hot.Wear gloves to prevent contact with hot liquid.All work should be done with the engine stopped.Wait until the coolant has completely flowed out of the drain hole.
  6. Step 8
    How to replace Thermostat on VW GOLF III (1H1) 1996: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Unscrew the thermostat housing fasteners. Use a drive socket #13. Use a ratchet wrench.
  7. Step 9
    How hard is it to do yourself: Thermostat replacement on Golf 3 2.0 GTI 16V 1997 - download illustrated guide
    Remove the thermostat housing.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: engine thermostat – VW GOLF III (1H1). Do not use excessive force when removing the part as this may damage it.
  8. Step 10
    Need to know how to renew Thermostat on VW GOLF 1998? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Remove the thermostat.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: engine thermostat – VW GOLF III (1H1). Do not use excessive force when removing the part as this may damage it.Caution! Coolant may leak out of the coolant lines and thermostat housing.
  9. Step 11
    Changing of Thermostat on Golf 3 1991 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Install a new thermostat.
    Replacement: engine thermostat – VW GOLF III (1H1). Tip:
    When installing, do not use excessive force to avoid damage to the part.
  10. Step 12
    VW GOLF 2.8 VR6 Thermostat replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Install the thermostat housing.
  11. Step 13
    Replacing Thermostat on Golf 3 1993 2.8 VR6 by yourself
    Tighten the thermostat housing fasteners. Use a drive socket #10. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 13 nm torque.
  12. Step 14
    GOLF III (1H1) 1.6 1994 Thermostat DIY replacement workshop manual
    Attach the coolant hose.
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DIY VW GOLF III (1H1) Thermostat replacement - online guide
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