2001 Ranger- no thermostat?

Question

I have a 2001 Ford Ranger that will not heat up, as in the needle will not go up and the air that comes out of the vents is fairly cool (there is a little bit of heat). I asked my father, and he said that it was my thermostat. I went to the auto part store, and they told me I do not have one in my engine- the 2.3L I4. I added more 50-50 mix, and it didn't help, but now my check engine light is on.
When I got my transmission replaced the guys there said my truck was strange. Does anyone know how to go about fixing this? I need to fix it so I can trade it in and get something that won't keep dying on me!

Answer 1

It has a electeronic thermostat on the left side of the block. It is a black plastic box that has an electrical connector on it. It is easier to access through the left fender well, after the tire is removed. This was the only year for the electric thermostat...The check engine light is probably on due to the engine not getting warm, disconnect the battery while you are changing the t-stat, then you should be good to go..You might have to go to the dealer for the part, I think they are about $50

Answer 2

i don't know what parts store you went to,,but all engines have a thermostat you can find it by following the top radiator hose down the housing that it in,but that just about has to be the problem with it,,good luck hope this help,s.,,PS i didn't think to tell you that this was fords off year that they used an electronic thermostat on that one,,you have to get to t from the side,,good luck.

Answer 3

ALL vehicles must have a thermostat.it is located neat to the radiator hose.you have to use a factory thermostat.it has a built in heater.it takes about half an hour to replace it. when done,start vehicle and feel the top radiator hose.once it is warm,the temperature gauge should move.use a scan tool and get the computer code.this is what cause the check engine light to come on.