Thermostat replacement on the 998 engine

[ARNIE R]

Out of curiosity, has anyone replaced the thermostat unit on the 998? If so, why did you do it or how did you decide or determine that it was necessary? Also, was it less or more messy than a radiator/coolant drain and refill?

My 2014 STS has always and consistently indicated 4 bars on the temperature gauge after full warmup during all four seasons until a few months ago. I now sometimes see it drop to three bars, and two bars, twice, during highway speeds. Back up to four bars at lower speeds or when stopped.

I am wondering if the thermostat may be sometimes sticking slightly, causing a minor "over-cooling" effect, similar to when the engine is initially warming up.

Other than that, all else seems OK, power, mileage, fuel-consumption, etc.

(I just may be overthinking the issue)

[yellow peril]

check coolant level. radiator may need cleaning

[otter28169]