2017 Sentra 1.8 Litre SV Remove & Replace Thermostats
 

Is there a relatively simple way to remove and replace the two thermostats on a 2017 Sentra SV with a 1.8 litre engine, CVT and air conditioning? The thermostat at the rear of the engine seems to be the least difficult of the two, requiring the removal of five really stuck 6mm bolts. It's merely tight. But the lower thermostat, on the side of the engine, near the belt assembly is the most puzzling. The access is bad, although it looks like only two 6mm bolts need to be removed. The upper bolt is reasonably accessible with a very long extension and a 12 mm socket. But the lower bolt is confined by the starter and the CVT heater. Using a crowfoot socket failed, as did multiple combinations of swivel extensions. It looks like access may be simpler, but not easy, if the radiator and air conditioning condenser are removed first.

The car has 110,000 miles on it and the thermostat replacement is preventive maintenance. Is this something people just wait to do until the radiator must be replaced?

I could not find any YouTube videos for this generation of Sentras. Older generations look easier and there are videos for them. I will appreciate any help. Many thanks from a new member.