Proactive Thermostat Change?

[Colt45ws]

I change mine every 3 years when I do the coolant drain and fill. Its easy to get to. I save the newest 'used' one unless it was bad, obviously. It gets a cap at the same time as well.

 

[hattaresguy]

I never touch a T stat until it fails. They are just a piece of bi metal that expands and contracts, very simple. I have seen some 30+ year old ones doing just fine.