Section 130 (Engine Cooling System): Engine: Thermostat: Description: 3.6L

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Dodge Durango. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Thermostat Housing & Coolant Temperature Sensor

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

CAUTION:

Do not operate an engine without a thermostat, except for servicing or testing.

The thermostat housing (2) is mounted to the timing chain cover and has the coolant temperature sensor (1) mounted to it.
A pellet-type thermostat controls the operating temperature of the engine by controlling the amount of coolant flow to the radiator and engine oil cooler. The thermostat is closed below 195°F (90°C). Above this temperature, coolant is allowed to flow to the radiator and engine oil cooler. This provides quick engine warm up and overall temperature control.
The thermostat is part of the thermostat housing.