The thermostat in your Buick Century regulates the flow of coolant throughout the radiator. When the thermostat is going bad you will notice the temperature gauge constantly rising in the hot position. Replacing the thermostat will ensure your Buick does not overheat. The thermostat opens and allows the coolant to flow through the motor to allow the engine to cool down. Once the engine is cooled down, then the thermostat will close and repeat the cycle when the engine starts getting hot.
Open the hood to access the engine compartment. Locate the top radiator hose.
Follow the radiator hose to the engine. Unclamp the hose by unscrewing the hose clamp with a flat head screwdriver. Pull the hose off the thermostat housing.
Unbolt the thermostat housing with a socket wrench. There will be two bolts to unscrew. Separate the thermostat assembly to expose the thermostat.
Pull the thermostat out with your fingers. Remember the position the thermostat was sitting in.
Place the new thermostat in the housing with your fingers. Ensure the thermostat is placed at the same position as the old thermostat was positioned.
Bolt the thermostat housing cover back over the assembly with a socket wrench. Ensure you tighten the bolts snug.
Clamp the radiator hose back on to the inlet pipe. Tighten the hose clamp with a flat head screwdriver.
Twist the radiator cap off to check the level of the radiator. You should be able to see coolant at the neck of the radiator. Fill with coolant if necessary.
