The Lexus ES series is classed as a mid-size luxury sedan by Lexus. The 1996 Lexus ES is part of the second generation of the ES series and is built on the Toyota Camry platform. Because the Lexus ES is classified as a luxury vehicle, general repairs like replacing the thermostat can cost more when you have the work done by an auto repair shop or a dealer. Fortunately for Lexus owners, replacing the thermostat is an easy do-it-yourself project that won't take long and requires just a few tools.
Trace the upper radiator hose from the radiator to where the hose connects to the engine block via the water inlet tube. Remove the hose from the inlet tube by loosening the band clamp by squeezing the two compression tabs together with a pair of pliers. With the compression tabs squeezed together, pull the hose off the inlet tube.
Remove the two bolts that secure the water inlet tube to the engine of the Lexus with a 12-mm socket. When used with a swivel, you can remove the bolts without removing the air compressor motor. Lift the water inlet tube off the engine. It's a tight fit but you can work the tube out without removing any engine components.
Pull the thermostat out of the engine. Place the new one in the engine. The end with the spring on it sits inside the engine.
Pull the old gasket off the engine and clean the surface. Place the new gasket on the engine.
Position the water inlet tube on the engine and bolt it into place.
Slide the hose onto the water inlet tube and secure it with the clamp.
