What component is responsible for measuring coolant temperature and controlling its flow?

The component that measures coolant temperature and controls its flow is the thermostat. The thermostat plays a crucial role in the engine's cooling system by regulating the temperature of the engine and ensuring it operates efficiently. It does this by opening and closing in response to the coolant temperature. When the engine is cold, the thermostat remains closed, allowing the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature quickly. As the engine heats up and the coolant temperature rises, the thermostat opens to allow coolant to flow to the radiator, where it can be cooled down before circulating back to the engine.

This precise function helps maintain the correct engine temperature, preventing overheating and ensuring that the engine performs effectively. The other components, such as the radiator, water pump, and cooling fan, contribute to the cooling system but do not have the same direct role in measuring temperature and controlling coolant flow. The radiator is primarily for dissipating heat, the water pump circulates the coolant, and the cooling fan helps cool the radiator when needed, but they do not measure coolant temperature or regulate its flow like the thermostat does.