The thermostat in the 2000 Dodge Intrepid equipped with a 2.7-liter engine is operated by a wax pellet chamber. This differs from the usual mercury valve used for most thermostats. Although the method for measuring engine temperature differs, the process of cooling the engine is the same, so when the thermostat stops working, you must replace it before the engine suffers severe damage.
Drive the Dodge Intrepid onto a set of front-lifting ramps. Secure the parking brake.
Locate the lower radiator hose. Follow the hose from the lower radiator to where the hose connects to a fitting called the "water inlet housing," which bolts to the water pump.
Remove the hose and the water inlet housing to expose the thermostat as it rests inside the water inlet housing.
