I'm getting a P0128 code for the thermostat. Code normally pops up when it is cold out. I know the 3.6 thermostat and housing was revised due to a lot of problems but still has the same part number. The issue is this part is on national backorder with no ETA. Has anyone had any luck with any aftermarket brands? I prefer to get the factory replacement depending on how long it takes for it to becomes available, but the price on it is ridiculous lol.

 

Have you checked what temperature the engine is actually running at, with an IR temp gun, aimed at the base of the thermostat housing?

 

No I haven't. The code comes up saying the cioolant temp is below the thermostat regulating temperature If I can find someone with an IR scanner I will definitely give that a try. It has only happened during cold weather.

 

Ryan, get the local dealer to do a LOCATE on DealerConnect.. It will show any dealer with that PN in inventory. If any show in inventory; Get the dlr name, phone, and call yourself to purchase- do not announce the N/BO situation and expect to pay full list price and hopefully not Triple Net. Good Luck. BTW on DealerConnect they can check for superceeded PN both prior and after.

 

I might just be better off calling all the local dealers myself. Not sure any of them not close would ship. I really was trying to find any feedback on a good aftermarket alternative. I have talked to a few people that said only go with the revised factory part. Thanks for the reply.

 

Here is the newest, current PN 5184651AJ, It superceeds from AH.. This site is showing: https://www.mopargenuineparts.com/sku/5184651ah.html

 

Thanks Jay. Have you ever ordered from that site? That price is at least $30 cheaper than the local dealers. I just hope that part isn't old stock of the bad thermostats as the revised ones kept the same part number.

 

I have used aftermarket thermostats without issue. They aren't overly complex items. Get a name brand from. A name brand FLAPS should have a respectable brand with reasonable reliability. I got mine idk, 6 months ago and I've had no issues. I will note that I have the 3.8 van motor, not the pentastar engine.

 

The site is located at Westbury Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, Westbury NY. The PN is the most current with the AJ suffix.. the prior was AH. Mopar changes suffixs when the part is approved for a new model year. The root number remains the same just the suffix changes. They show availability on the AJ pn.. On their site check the contact them info. Good Luck.

 

I’m sure nobody will read this but the OEM thermostats are objectively a waste of money as they will just send you an aftermarket one in a Mopar bag. Buy a $10 one from Amazon and take a light drive and see if it opens. Whatever it does, shut vehicle off immediately and (if it worked) let cool for at least 5 hours and dont take the cap off if you don’t have to. Unless you have a magnetic stirrer hot plate you can’t possibly accurately test them any other way