Chery A5 Thermostat (Part No.: 481H-1306020)
First off, let’s keep it simple: the Chery A5 Thermostat 481H-1306020 isn’t just a “tiny metal valve”—it’s your A5 engine’s “smart temperature controller.” Think of it like a gate that opens and closes to keep your engine at the perfect operating temp (usually around 82–90°C). Here’s how it works: when you first start your car, the thermostat stays closed, trapping coolant inside the engine so it warms up fast (no more shivering in a cold car for 10 minutes!). Once the engine hits the right temp, it opens up, letting coolant flow to the radiator to cool down—so your engine never overheats. Without a working thermostat, your engine either takes forever to warm up (wasting gas and wearing parts out) or gets too hot (risking damage like a blown head gasket). This thermostat is exclusively for Chery A5 models with the 481H engine—mostly A5 variants built between 2006 and 2012 (always double-check your car’s VIN or owner’s manual to confirm it has the 481H engine!). It’s calibrated exactly for the 481H’s needs: it opens at the precise temp (around 82°C) to keep the engine running efficiently, and its size fits perfectly in the engine’s coolant housing (no gaps, no leaks). Grab a generic thermostat? You’ll run into chaos: it opens too early (engine stays cold) or too late (engine overheats), or it doesn’t seal right (coolant leaks out). Total headache for a part that’s supposed to make your life easier.
![481H-1306020]( "481H-1306020")
This 481H-1306020 thermostat only works with Chery A5s with the 481H engine—using the wrong one is a waste of cash and a risk to your engine. Here’s the deal:
Fits These Models: Chery A5 (equipped with 481H gasoline engine) 2006–2012. Works with all trims (Comfort, Luxury) and 1.6L/1.8L variants of the 481H engine.
Won’t Fit These:
Chery A5s with other engines (e.g., 477F engine): The 477F has a smaller coolant housing—this thermostat is too big, and it opens at the wrong temp.
Other Chery models (e.g., A3, Tiggo 3): Their engines have different thermostat specs (opening temp, size)—this one won’t fit or work right.
Non-Chery vehicles: Even if it “looks similar,” the housing size and opening temp are off—you’ll get leaks or engine overheating.
System Compatibility: Must be used with Chery’s recommended coolant (ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water). Using cheap or wrong coolant (like tap water or universal “all-car” coolant) can break down the rubber seal or clog the thermostat.
Installing a thermostat isn’t just “plug and play”—it involves draining coolant, bleeding air from the system, and making sure the seal is tight. Only trust a Chery 4S shop or a mechanic who knows 481H engines. Here’s why:
Coolant Drainage: You have to drain the engine’s coolant first (it’s toxic and messy!). Techs know how to catch and reuse or dispose of it safely (you don’t want coolant on your driveway or in the soil).
Air Bleeding: If air gets trapped in the coolant system after installation, it can cause “air locks”—the thermostat won’t get coolant, so the engine overheats. Techs use special tools to bleed out all air.
Seal Integrity: The rubber seal has to be seated perfectly, and the thermostat housing bolts tightened to Chery’s exact specs (usually 18–22 N·m). Too loose, and coolant leaks; too tight, and the housing cracks (expensive to fix!).
Watch for Warning Signs: A bad thermostat usually gives clues—if your A5 takes 20+ minutes to warm up (thermostat stuck open) or the temperature gauge spikes to “hot” (stuck closed), get it checked ASAP.
Replace Every 4–5 Years: Even if it works, the wax element wears out over time, and the seal hardens. Replacing it regularly (with the original 481H-1306020) is cheaper than fixing an overheated engine.
Use Only Original Coolant: Change your coolant every 2–3 years (per Chery’s manual) and use the right mix. Dirty or old coolant clogs the thermostat, making it stick.
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Company IntroductionSummary
The original 481H-1306020 pops open at exactly the right temperature, keeps a tight seal the whole time, and hangs in there for 5 years or more.
Bottom line, the Chery A5 Thermostat 481H-1306020 is your engine’s “temp police.” It keeps things warm when they need it, cool when they should be, and saves you gas while keeping you from dealing with annoying issues. Stick with the original part, have pros install it, and don’t skip coolant changes—your A5 will run nice and smooth for years.
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![481H-1306020]( "481H-1306020")
