Motorad 281-180 Engine Coolant Thermostat

Engine Cooling Thermostat for Toyota and Lexus

Motorad 281-180 is a standard engine coolant thermostat built to OE specifications for vehicles that use a 180 degree F opening temperature. It is a direct-fit cooling system service part for many Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Mitsubishi, Pontiac, Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge applications, including Toyota Camry, Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Tacoma, and Tundra coverage.

The Motorad Standard line focuses on OE-style fit and function for everyday cooling system service. Part number 281-180 uses OEM-quality materials and manufacturing processes, with a copper case and wax compound for quick response to coolant temperature changes.

Key Features

• 180 degree F start-to-open temperature for OE-style engine cooling control
• Copper case and wax compound for responsive temperature regulation
• Offset design with air relief valve where applicable
• Jiggle pin weep hole included
• Manufactured to OEM specifications and processes
• Standard type thermostat for broad vehicle coverage
• Part number 281-180 for easy cross-reference and catalog lookup

Detailed Description

Motorad 281-180 is an engine coolant thermostat engineered for vehicles that require a 180F thermostat in the cooling system. It is built with OEM-quality materials and safety standards as supplied by an OE supplier, helping maintain stable coolant flow and operating temperature in demanding daily driving conditions. The copper case and wax compound support fast reaction to temperature changes, while the offset design and air relief valve help promote proper coolant circulation where applicable. This thermostat is a practical replacement choice for Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla, Lexus ES350, Toyota Highlander, and related applications that call for a standard 180 degree thermostat.

This part cross-references AMS Automotive 4078 for the same application.

Common Cooling System Issues It Can Address

• Engine running cooler or warmer than the specified operating range
• Delayed warm-up after cold starts
• Temperature fluctuation caused by a worn thermostat
• Cooling system service on Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Mitsubishi, and select domestic models
• Replacement of a thermostat that no longer opens at the correct temperature

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the engine’s required thermostat temperature before installation. This thermostat is a standard 180 degree F unit and does not include a gasket or seal, so the correct sealing components should be selected for the application. Confirm housing condition, clean the mating surfaces, and bleed air from the cooling system after service to help prevent trapped air and temperature irregularities.

Quality Assurance

Motorad manufactures this thermostat to OEM specifications using OE-supplier processes and OEM-quality materials. The design includes a copper case, wax compound, jiggle pin weep hole, and OE-style features where applicable to support consistent cooling system performance.