I have spent several hours researching this and I can not find an answer. I can not find a clear answer. Can the thermostat be replaced with out removing the water pump. My car is at the dealership because it had a spontaneous over heating issue which blew out the upper radiator hose. I have been quoted $1,100 to have only the thermostat replaced. The dealer is not recomending the water pump be replaced because it was replaced before I bought it. The quote includes 3.5 hours of labor. I have read that the top engine shroud and plastic air intake duct work only needs to be removed to get at the thermostat which is then only attached to the water pump with three bolts. Rough estimate to replace it would be 45 min to and hour. I am not sure this is true. I read through the DIY and it looks like the only way to remove the thermostat is remove the water pump. Is this true and does anyone have any experience with this,