2018 Ford Explorer Thermostats – Restore Cooling Accuracy with OEM Precision

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Explorer Thermostats 2018 – Engineered for Reliable Temperature Regulation

The thermostat in your 2018 Ford Explorer is responsible for regulating coolant flow between the engine and radiator. If the thermostat fails, it can cause overheating, lack of cabin heat, or erratic temperature readings—which may lead to engine damage or reduced efficiency.

OEM thermostats are built to Ford’s exact specifications, ensuring that the valve opens and closes at the correct temperature to maintain optimal engine performance. Constructed from durable, corrosion-resistant materials, these components are designed for long service life and a perfect factory fit—no guesswork required.

Whether you're performing routine maintenance or addressing a cooling issue, genuine OEM thermostats are the trusted solution.

Thermostat

Part Number: 1X4Z-8575-B
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Thermostat Gasket. Included with housing assembly. Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.7L. 3.5L W/O TURBO.
Other Names: Thermostat Assembly, rt1253
Replaces: 1X4Z-8575-A, 1X4Z-8575-FA, RT-1172, RT-1228
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Explorer,
    • Flex,
    • Freestyle,
    • Fusion,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus,
    • Taurus X
  • Lincoln:
    • Continental,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ
  • Mercury:
    • Sable
MSRP $24.18
$15.56

Thermostat Outlet

Part Number: AA5Z-8592-A
Ford Ford
Applications: 3.5L W/TURBO.
Other Names: Water Outlet, Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing, Connection Water Outlet, rh193
Description: MKT. Flex. 3.5L turbo. Explorer. With turbo. Taurus. MKS. Police Interceptor Utility.
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Explorer,
    • Flex,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus
  • Lincoln:
    • MKS,
    • MKT
MSRP $70.00
$48.72

Thermostat Unit

Part Number: FR3Z-8575-A
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Gasket And Thermostat Housing.
Applications: 2.3L. 2.0L W/O HYBRID.
Other Names: Thermostat, Thermostat Housing, Thermostat Assembly, rt1233
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Explorer,
    • Focus,
    • Fusion,
    • Mustang,
    • Transit Connect
  • Lincoln:
    • MKC,
    • MKZ
MSRP $57.45
$36.66

Thermostat Housing

Part Number: AT4Z-8A586-C
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Water Outlet, Thermostat And Gaskets.
Applications: 3.7L. 3.5L W/O TURBO.
Other Names: Housing Assembly, Engine Coolant Thermostat Kit, Connection Water Outlet, rh248
Replaces: AT4Z-8A586-A, AT4Z-8A586-B, AT4Z-8A586-FA
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Explorer,
    • Flex,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus
  • Lincoln:
    • Continental,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ
MSRP $228.33
$158.92

Motorcraft™ Thermostat

Part Number: RT-1253
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Thermostat Gasket. Included with housing assembly. Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.7L. 3.5L W/O TURBO.
Other Names: Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat, Thermostat Assembly
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Explorer,
    • Flex,
    • Freestyle,
    • Fusion,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus,
    • Taurus X
  • Lincoln:
    • Continental,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ
  • Mercury:
    • Sable
MSRP $24.18
$15.56

Thermostat Housing Bolt

Part Number: W713197-S437
Ford Ford
Other Names: Tube Assembly Bolt, Water Pipe Bolt, Thermostat Housing Upper Bolt, Thermostat Unit Bolt, Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Bolt,...
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus
  • Lincoln:
    • MKZ,
    • Navigator
MSRP $6.75
$3.95

Thermostat Outlet Bolt

Part Number: W503277-S437
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Other Names: Thermostat Housing Bolt, Water Outlet Bolt, Controller Bolt, Oil Cooler Bolt, Water Pump Assembly Bolt, Thermostat Bolt, Water Pump...
Replaces: W503277-S450
Description: 2018-24. 2.7L, m6x25mm. 7.3L. 3.5L turbo. 3.0L, m6x25mm. 3.7L. 3.0L with hybrid, main. 2.7L, 2017-24. 2.7L turbo. 2.7L, 2015-16.
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • F-250 Super Duty,
    • F-350 Super Duty,
    • Fusion,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus
  • Lincoln:
    • Aviator,
    • Continental,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ,
    • Nautilus,
    • Navigator
MSRP $4.00
$2.34

Motorcraft™ Thermostat

Part Number: RT-1233
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Gasket And Thermostat Housing.
Applications: 2.3L. 2.0L W/O HYBRID.
Other Names: Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat Kit, Motorcraft™ Thermostat Housing, Motorcraft™ Thermostat Unit, Thermostat Assembly
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Explorer,
    • Focus,
    • Fusion,
    • Mustang,
    • Transit Connect
  • Lincoln:
    • MKC,
    • MKZ
MSRP $57.45
$36.66

Motorcraft™ Thermostat Housing

Part Number: RH-248
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Water Outlet, Thermostat And Gaskets.
Applications: 3.7L. 3.5L W/O TURBO.
Other Names: Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat Kit, Motorcraft™ Housing Assembly, Connection Water Outlet
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Explorer,
    • Flex,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus
  • Lincoln:
    • Continental,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ
MSRP $228.33
$158.92

Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Gasket

Part Number: 7T4Z-8590-A
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with housing assembly. Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.7L. 5.0L. 3.3L. 3.5L W/O TURBO. 5.2L GT350, GT350R.
Other Names: Thermostat Housing Gasket, Housing Gasket, Thermostat Housing Seal, Thermostat Housing O-Ring, Thermostat Unit O-Ring, Housing...
Description: Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Gasket - Ford (7T4Z-8590-A) The Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Gasket - Ford (7T4Z-8590-A) is...
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Edge,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Flex,
    • Fusion,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus,
    • Taurus X,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Continental,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ,
    • Navigator
  • Mercury:
    • Sable
MSRP $16.85
$10.85

Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Gasket

Part Number: F1VY-8255-A
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with water outlet. Included with lower housing. Included with water manifold. Included with housing assembly. Included with...
Applications: 6.2L. 3.0L. 3.7L. 7.3L. 2.0L. 2.3L. 4.6L, 5.4L. 5.4L, 6.8L. 3.5L W/O TURBO. 1999-07 SUPER DUTY.
Other Names: Engine Coolant Thermostat Gasket, Thermostat Gasket, Gasket, Thermostat Seal, Thermostat Housing Gasket, Thermostat O-Ring,...
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Contour,
    • Crown Victoria,
    • E-150,
    • E-150 Club Wagon,
    • E-150 Econoline,
    • E-150 Econoline Club Wagon,
    • E-250,
    • E-250 Econoline,
    • E-350 Club Wagon,
    • E-350 Econoline,
    • E-350 Econoline Club Wagon,
    • E-350 Super Duty,
    • E-450 Econoline Super Duty,
    • E-450 Super Duty,
    • E-550 Econoline Super Duty,
    • E-550 Super Duty,
    • Econoline Super Duty,
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Excursion,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • Explorer Sport Trac,
    • F-150,
    • F-150 Heritage,
    • F-250,
    • F-250 Super Duty,
    • F-350 Super Duty,
    • F-450 Super Duty,
    • F-550 Super Duty,
    • Five Hundred,
    • Flex,
    • Freestyle,
    • Fusion,
    • GT,
    • Maverick,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus,
    • Taurus X,
    • Thunderbird
  • Lincoln:
    • Aviator,
    • Blackwood,
    • Continental,
    • Corsair,
    • LS,
    • Mark LT,
    • Mark VIII,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ,
    • Nautilus,
    • Navigator,
    • Town Car,
    • Zephyr
  • Mercury:
    • Cougar,
    • Grand Marquis,
    • Marauder,
    • Mariner,
    • Milan,
    • Montego,
    • Mountaineer,
    • Mystique,
    • Sable
MSRP $4.51
$2.90

Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat Gasket

Part Number: RG-571
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with water outlet. Included with lower housing. Included with water manifold. Included with housing assembly. Included with...
Applications: 6.2L. 3.0L. 3.7L. 7.3L. 2.0L. 2.3L. 4.6L, 5.4L. 5.4L, 6.8L. 3.5L W/O TURBO. 1999-07 SUPER DUTY.
Other Names: Motorcraft™ Thermostat Gasket, Motorcraft™ Gasket, Motorcraft™ Thermostat Seal, Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat O-Ring,...
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Contour,
    • Crown Victoria,
    • E-150,
    • E-150 Club Wagon,
    • E-150 Econoline,
    • E-150 Econoline Club Wagon,
    • E-250,
    • E-250 Econoline,
    • E-350 Club Wagon,
    • E-350 Econoline,
    • E-350 Econoline Club Wagon,
    • E-350 Super Duty,
    • E-450 Econoline Super Duty,
    • E-450 Super Duty,
    • E-550 Econoline Super Duty,
    • E-550 Super Duty,
    • Econoline Super Duty,
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Excursion,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • Explorer Sport Trac,
    • F-150,
    • F-150 Heritage,
    • F-250,
    • F-250 Super Duty,
    • F-350 Super Duty,
    • F-450 Super Duty,
    • F-550 Super Duty,
    • Five Hundred,
    • Flex,
    • Freestyle,
    • Fusion,
    • GT,
    • Maverick,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Sedan,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Taurus,
    • Taurus X,
    • Thunderbird
  • Lincoln:
    • Aviator,
    • Blackwood,
    • Continental,
    • Corsair,
    • LS,
    • Mark LT,
    • Mark VIII,
    • MKS,
    • MKT,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ,
    • Nautilus,
    • Navigator,
    • Town Car,
    • Zephyr
  • Mercury:
    • Cougar,
    • Grand Marquis,
    • Marauder,
    • Mariner,
    • Milan,
    • Montego,
    • Mountaineer,
    • Mystique,
    • Sable
MSRP $4.51
$2.90
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Why Choose OEM Thermostats for the 2018 Ford Explorer?

OEM Fitment – Designed for factory specifications to ensure precise performance. 

Prevents Failures – Maintains optimal operation and longevity. 

Durable Construction – Made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials. 

Efficient Operation – Ensures proper function and system protection. 

Easy Installation – Direct bolt-on replacement with no modifications required.

Compatible Ford Explorer Trims

These OEM thermostats are compatible with the following 2018 Ford Explorer engine options:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost I4

  • 3.5L Ti-VCT V6

  • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Sport and Platinum)

Thermostat location, housing design, and temperature settings may vary by engine. Confirm fitment using your VIN or OE part number before purchase.

Signs Your 2018 Explorer Needs a New Thermostat

🚙 Temperature gauge fluctuates or spikes unexpectedly 

🚙 Overheating during normal driving 

🚙 No warm air from the cabin heater 

🚙 Coolant leaks around the thermostat housing 

🚙 Check engine light or poor fuel economy

A malfunctioning thermostat can reduce efficiency and cause expensive engine damage if not addressed promptly.

How to Replace the Thermostat on a 2018 Ford Explorer

Thermostat replacement is a moderate DIY job or quick service for most mechanics.

Tools Needed: 

✔ Socket and ratchet set 

✔ Drain pan 

✔ Gasket scraper or wire brush 

✔ New OEM thermostat and gasket or seal 

✔ Screwdrivers or pliers (for hose clamps) 

✔ Coolant and funnel 

✔ Torque wrench

Installation Steps:

  1. Cool the Engine & Drain Coolant – Drain to a level below the thermostat housing.

  2. Locate the Thermostat Housing – Usually found at the engine-end of the upper radiator hose.

  3. Remove Bolts & Extract Old Thermostat – Clean mating surfaces thoroughly.

  4. Install New OEM Thermostat – Use a new gasket and ensure correct orientation.

  5. Reassemble & Torque to Spec – Avoid overtightening to prevent leaks.

  6. Refill Coolant & Bleed System – Start engine, top off coolant, and monitor temperature.

  7. Test Drive & Inspect – Ensure stable temperature and no leaks.

Popular Related Parts for 2018 Explorer

🔹 2018 Explorer Radiator Hoses – Replace if cracked, bulging, or leaking 

🔹 2018 Explorer Coolant Temperature Sensor – Sends data to your dashboard and ECU 

🔹 2018 Explorer Radiator – Check for signs of leaks or clogging 

🔹 2018 Explorer Water Pump – Inspect if overheating or coolant circulation issues occur 

🔹 2018 Explorer Coolant Reservoir – Replace if cracked or discolored

Get Your 2018 Explorer Thermostats Today!

Ensure proper temperature regulation and engine longevity with OEM thermostats made for your 2018 Ford Explorer. Factory-fit and tested for reliability in all driving conditions.

🛒 Drive Cool – Shop OEM Thermostats Now!

FAQs About 2018 Ford Explorer Thermostats

When should I replace the thermostat? Typically every 160,000 km or sooner if you experience overheating or temperature issues.

What temperature does the OEM thermostat open at? Usually between 90°C and 95°C (194°F–203°F), depending on the engine type.

Should I replace the gasket or seal when replacing the thermostat? Yes—always replace the gasket or O-ring to prevent coolant leaks.

Can a bad thermostat trigger a warning light? Yes—temperature regulation issues can trigger check engine lights and affect fuel efficiency.

Why choose OEM over aftermarket thermostats? OEM thermostats match the vehicle's factory calibration, ensuring accurate temperature control and maximum durability.