If your 2000 Oldsmobile Alero is overheating, the thermostat may be the problem. The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant through the engine. When the engine reaches a certain temperature, the thermostat opens, allowing the coolant to keep the engine from overheating. Fortunately, replacing a faulty thermostat is a relatively simple task. Most Alero owners should be able to complete this project in about 30 minutes.
Open the hood of your 2000 Oldsmobile Alero. Locate the thermostat housing by following the radiator hose to the engine. At the end of the hose, you will see a housing secured by two bolts.
Remove the housing bolts with a ratchet. Lift off the thermostat housing cap. Place both the housing cap and the bolts in a sealable plastic bag.
Lift out the old thermostat and replace it with the new one. Pay attention to the direction of the old thermostat, so you don't reverse its replacement.
Replace the housing cap and the bolts that secure it to the engine. Start the Alero to make sure the thermostat allows coolant to flow through the engine.
