Hello everyone. Just bought the daughters first car, a 2007 Ford Ka 1.3 zetec.

First time out the HP power steering pipe burst due to a bodge of a rubber hose between the metal pipe that runs at the back of the front bumper. That seems all sorted and I applied copper slip liberally over the new pipe.

it now appears to have developed a small coolant leak from the thermostat housing. Previous owners swore the car never used any coolant before. Am I right in thinking there is a gasket that might need replacing?

Looks like I can get to it by removing the air filter box. Haven’t done much work on cars since my 20’s which is nearly 20years ago. I expect to be a regular visitor to the site but found guidance on here very useful.

Apart from this and a worn drop link, the car seems to drive pretty good and the daughter loves it.

Any advice on the coolant issue, much appreciated.

remove airbox to get at the thermostat and replace the whole this as the seal is a 0 ring rfor memory and not

worth trying to replace just that is the face of the thermostat body usually corrodes and leaks.

take care as sometimes they are a plastic item so dont overtighten the bolts.

try to get ford part but they are expensive so aftermarket will do as its an old car

Ordered through amazon for £15. I will tackle it at the weekend. Hope the alloy isn’t pitted!