Thermostat question

[FunElan]

Hi all,

So I believe my thermostat is stuck open. I've searched and the symptoms are there-takes a while to warm up (longer than my 02), 21/29 city and highway mileage (I'm told it should be better). My heater is nice and hot however.

My question is, since I'll be changing the thermostat, does this mean that there is a higher chance my car will overheat/blow a head gasket? Since it's stuck open it's overcooling, but if it works properly, I'm scared it'll expose a bigger problem which I don't really have $ to fix. This car is my beater. I'm about to drive the car from Los Angeles to Tucson next week also, hence why I'm more scared, because I don't want to break down in the middle of nowhere.

Thanks all, and forgive me if it's a stupid question,
Matt

[victell]

A stuck open thermostat usually will not damage a car. It can exhibit symptoms such as longer warm-up and it may cool down way below middle when you are cruising down a hill.

Keep your eye on the temp gauge until you get it fixed. Dont let it overheat.

[FunElan]

Changed it yesterday! All is well now. Warms up much quicker. Will be checking gas mileage this week to see if it affected that.