Gates 34012 Engine Coolant Thermostat

Gates OE Type Thermostat 34012

The Gates OE Type Thermostat 34012 is built for precise engine coolant temperature control and an OEM-equivalent fit. It is a direct replacement thermostat for Subaru cooling system service, including applications such as Subaru WRX STI, WRX, Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback, Baja, and Saab 9-2X.

Key Features

• OE Type thermostat for factory-style cooling system operation
• Reverse poppet design for controlled coolant flow
• Starts to open at 172 degrees Fahrenheit / 78 degrees Celsius
• Steel and copper construction for durability in cooling system service
• O-ring seal type for leak-resistant installation
• Jiggle pin weep hole included to aid air bleeding during fill
• OEM-equivalent fit for Subaru and Saab applications listed below

Product Details

Gates OE Type Thermostat 34012 is engineered to match original equipment temperature control requirements while maintaining a leak-free seal at the housing interface. The reverse poppet design and 172-degree opening point support stable coolant regulation in Subaru cooling systems, helping the engine reach and maintain proper operating temperature. This thermostat is a practical replacement for Subaru WRX STI, Subaru WRX, Subaru Impreza, Subaru Forester, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Subaru Baja, and Saab 9-2X models across the listed years.

This part cross-references Dorman - HELP 38457 for the same application.

What It Is Used For

• Restoring proper engine warm-up and temperature regulation
• Replacing a thermostat that is stuck open or stuck closed
• Addressing coolant temperature fluctuations in Subaru cooling systems
• Correcting overheating concerns caused by restricted thermostat operation
• Resolving leaks at the thermostat seal or housing interface

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the thermostat orientation before installation and confirm the O-ring seal seats evenly in the housing. Clean the mating surfaces thoroughly, inspect the housing for corrosion or warping, and bleed trapped air through the jiggle pin weep hole during refill. Confirm the application by year, make, and model before ordering; this thermostat is listed for 1990-2021 Subaru and Saab applications, including 2020-2021 Subaru WRX STI, 2013-2018 Subaru WRX STI, 2012-2016 Subaru WRX, 1993-2014 Subaru Impreza, 1998-2013 Subaru Forester, 2015-2019 Subaru Legacy, 2000-2009 Subaru Outback, 2003-2006 Subaru Baja, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X.

Quality Assurance

Gates OE Type Thermostats are built to provide precise temperature control and OEM-equivalent fit for cooling system service. The 34012 part number is used across multiple Subaru and Saab applications, making it a reliable reference for thermostat replacement work.