2021 Ford Explorer Thermostats – Regulate Engine Cooling with OEM Precision

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Explorer Thermostats 2021 – Engineered for Reliable Temperature Management

The thermostat in your 2021 Ford Explorer controls when coolant flows through the engine, ensuring it reaches and maintains the optimal operating temperature. If your thermostat fails, you may experience overheating, poor cabin heat, or erratic temperature gauge readings, putting your engine at risk.

OEM thermostats are built to Ford’s exact factory specifications, opening at the precise temperature your engine requires. They feature corrosion-resistant housings, high-temperature seals, and factory-calibrated valve control, ensuring long-term durability and consistent operation.

For trouble-free cooling system performance, replace your thermostat with a genuine OEM part.

Thermostat

Part Number: BR3Z-8575-G
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 5.0L. 3.0L. 5.2L GT500. 5.2L GT350, GT350R.
Other Names: Thermostat, Thermostat Assembly, rt1258
Replaces: BR3Z-8575-A, BR3Z-8575-D, RT-1208, RT-1225
Description: Mustang. 5.0L. Explorer. Without supercharger. Continental. Manual transmission. 3.0L with hybrid, main. Police Interceptor Utility....
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Explorer,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility
  • Lincoln:
    • Aviator,
    • Continental
MSRP $40.18
$25.86

Thermostat

Part Number: LB5Z-8575-C
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Thermostat Gasket.
Applications: 2.3L.
Other Names: Thermostat Assembly
Replaces: LB5Z-8575-B
Description: 2.3L. Bronco. 2020-24. Explorer. To 5/13/2024. Ranger. 2025.
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Bronco,
    • Explorer,
    • Ranger
MSRP $46.36
$29.84

Thermostat Housing

Part Number: BL3Z-8A586-G
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Water Outlet, Thermostat, And Gaskets. Includes Housing Gasket (Lower), Thermostat, Thermostat Gasket And Water Outlet.
Applications: 3.5L. 3.7L. 3.3L Gas. 3.3L Hybrid.
Other Names: Engine Coolant Thermostat Kit, Thermostat Unit, Connection Water Outlet, rh309
Replaces: BL3Z-8592-C, BL3Z-8A586-B, BR3Z-8592-B, RH-244
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Navigator
MSRP $205.00
$142.68

Thermostat Gasket

Part Number: BR3Z-8255-A
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with water manifold. Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.5L. 5.0L. 2.5L. 3.3L Gas. 2.7L & 3.0L. 3.0L Diesel. 3.3L Hybrid. 2.0L W/HYBRID. 5.2L GT350, GT350R.
Other Names: Thermostat Gasket, Gasket, Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Seal, Thermostat Seal, Thermostat Housing Gasket, Thermostat Cover...
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Bronco,
    • C-Max,
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Fusion,
    • Maverick,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Police Responder Hybrid,
    • Ranger,
    • SSV Plug-In Hybrid,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Aviator,
    • Continental,
    • Corsair,
    • MKX,
    • MKZ,
    • Nautilus,
    • Navigator
MSRP $3.53
$2.27

Thermostat Outlet

Part Number: BR3Z-8592-Q
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.5L. 3.7L. 3.3L Gas. 3.3L Hybrid.
Other Names: Water Outlet, Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing, Outlet Tube, Connection Water Outlet, rh226
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Navigator
MSRP $256.67
$178.64

Thermostat Gasket

Part Number: HL3Z-8255-A
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.5L. 2.3L. 2.0L.
Other Names: Gasket, Engine Coolant Thermostat Gasket, Thermostat O-Ring, Seal Thermostat, rg640
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Bronco,
    • Bronco Sport,
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Maverick,
    • Ranger
  • Lincoln:
    • Corsair,
    • Nautilus,
    • Navigator
MSRP $10.45
$6.73

Motorcraft™ Thermostat

Part Number: RT-1258
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 5.0L. 3.0L. 5.2L GT500. 5.2L GT350, GT350R.
Other Names: Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat, Thermostat Assembly
Description: Mustang. Aviator. 5.0L. Explorer. Without supercharger. Continental. Manual transmission. 3.0L with hybrid, main. Police Interceptor...
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Explorer,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility
  • Lincoln:
    • Aviator,
    • Continental
MSRP $40.18
$25.86

Engine Coolant Thermostat

Part Number: BL3Z-8575-B
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.7L. 3.5L. 3.3L Gas. 3.3L Hybrid.
Other Names: Thermostat, Thermostat Assembly, rt1255
Replaces: BL3Z-8575-A, RT-1213
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Navigator
MSRP $37.45
$24.10

Thermostat Housing Bolt

Part Number: W714841-S437
Ford Ford
Other Names: Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Bolt, Thermostat Unit Mount Bolt, Bolt
Description: 3.7L. 3.5L non turbo. 3.5L with turbo, to 09/25/2016. 2015-17. 3.3L, main. 3.5L without turbo.
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Navigator
MSRP $8.00
$4.68

Motorcraft™ Thermostat

Part Number: RT-1255
Ford Ford
Notes: Included with thermostat housing.
Applications: 3.7L. 3.5L. 3.3L Gas. 3.3L Hybrid.
Other Names: Motorcraft™ Engine Coolant Thermostat, Thermostat Assembly
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Expedition,
    • Explorer,
    • F-150,
    • Mustang,
    • Police Interceptor Utility,
    • Transit-150,
    • Transit-250,
    • Transit-350,
    • Transit-350 HD
  • Lincoln:
    • Navigator
MSRP $37.45
$24.10

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

Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing

Part Number: K2GZ-8592-A
Ford Ford
Notes: Includes Thermostat And Gasket For 2015-2017 Models.
Applications: 2.3L. 2.0L.
Other Names: Thermostat Outlet, Water Outlet, Thermostat Housing, Connection Water Inlet, rh270
Fits:
  • Ford:
    • Bronco,
    • Bronco Sport,
    • Edge,
    • Escape,
    • Explorer,
    • Maverick,
    • Ranger
  • Lincoln:
    • Corsair,
    • Nautilus
MSRP $51.67
$35.96
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Why Choose OEM Thermostats for the 2021 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 2021 Ford Explorer engines:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost I4

  • 3.3L Hybrid V6

  • 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (ST and Platinum)

Thermostat specifications may vary by engine type. Always confirm compatibility using your VIN or OE part number.

Signs Your 2021 Explorer Needs a New Thermostat

🚙 Temperature gauge fluctuates or spikes unexpectedly 

🚙 Overheating or extended engine warm-up times 

🚙 Coolant leaks near the thermostat housing 

🚙 Poor heater performance in cold weather 

🚙 Check engine light with temperature-related fault codes

A faulty thermostat reduces efficiency and increases engine wear—timely replacement ensures reliable performance.

How to Replace the Thermostat on a 2021 Ford Explorer

Thermostat replacement is a moderately easy repair with common tools.

Tools Needed: 

✔ Socket and ratchet set 

✔ Drain pan 

✔ New OEM thermostat and gasket/seal 

✔ Gasket scraper or wire brush 

✔ Coolant and funnel 

✔ Torque wrench 

✔ Hose clamp pliers (if needed)

Installation Steps:

  1. Cool the Engine & Drain Coolant – Capture coolant below the thermostat housing level.

  2. Locate Thermostat Housing – Found where the upper radiator hose meets the engine block.

  3. Remove the Old Thermostat – Take off the housing, clean the mating surfaces.

  4. Install New OEM Thermostat – Ensure correct orientation and a new gasket or O-ring is used.

  5. Reassemble Housing & Torque Bolts – Follow manufacturer torque specs.

  6. Refill Coolant & Bleed Air – Start engine and top off coolant as needed.

  7. Check Temperature and Heater Output – Ensure system warms up evenly with no leaks.

Popular Related Parts for 2021 Explorer

🔹 2021 Explorer Radiator Hoses – Replace worn hoses during cooling system service 

🔹 2021 Explorer Coolant Temperature Sensor – Ensure accurate temperature readings 

🔹 2021 Explorer Water Pump – Circulates coolant throughout the system 

🔹 2021 Explorer Radiator – Replace if clogged or leaking 

🔹 2021 Explorer Coolant Reservoir – Inspect for cracks or discoloration

Get Your 2021 Explorer Thermostats Today!

Keep your engine running at peak efficiency and prevent cooling system failures. OEM thermostats offer the durability, accuracy, and fitment your 2021 Ford Explorer demands.

🛒 Drive Cool – Shop OEM Thermostats Now!

FAQs About 2021 Ford Explorer Thermostats

How often should the thermostat be replaced? Generally every 160,000 km or sooner if symptoms of failure appear.

What temperature do OEM thermostats open at? Most open between 90°C and 95°C (194°F–203°F), depending on engine type.

Do I need to replace the gasket with the thermostat? Yes—always use a new gasket or seal to ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks.

Can a faulty thermostat trigger a check engine light? Yes—temperature regulation issues can cause system fault codes.

Why choose OEM over aftermarket thermostats? OEM thermostats provide guaranteed fit, temperature calibration, and long-term reliability specifically designed for your Explorer.