The 2006 Chevrolet Aveo thermostat rests inside the intake manifold and is secured in place by a nontraditional plastic thermostat housing. Chevy usually uses a cast-metal housing. The plastic housing is prone to cracking, so it is recommended that you replace the housing with the thermostat to avoid future issues as the Aveo ages and the plastic housing deteriorates. You can get the cast-metal housing at most auto parts retailers or a Chevy dealer.
Follow the small upper radiator hose to the intake manifold on the Aveo. The hose connects to the plastic thermostat housing. Squeeze the tabs on the clamp together with a pair of pliers to release tension on the clamp. With the tabs squeezed together, pull the hose off the thermostat housing and hold it vertical to force excess fluid into the radiator. If a small amount of fluid drains onto the engine, wipe it off with a towel.
Remove both 12-mm bolts that secure the housing to the intake manifold. Lift up on the housing to remove the housing from the intake.
Discard the O-Ring gasket and the thermostat.
Place the new thermostat into the intake manifold. One end of the thermostat has a spring on it. This end sits inside the manifold, while the other end protrudes from it.
Place the new O-Ring gasket around the thermostat. Because the gasket is rubber and not paper, there is no residue from the old gasket to clean up before installing the new gasket.
Place the new cast-metal thermostat housing over the thermostat and secure it with the 12-mm bolts.
Slide the hose onto the thermostat housing and secure it with the clamp.
