Where is thermostat on my journney 2009? - 2009 Dodge Journey

Question turned around for clarity.
Question moved to model category.

Probably the same as Impala?

https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/7fo9e-chevrolet-impala-lt-need-torque-thermostat-housing.html

I just learned that there was revised torque specs for this engine. I missed that bulletin

current specs,
89 inch lbs or 7.4 ft lbs.

Best idea is tight and a little bit more.

https://www.google.com/search?q=2009+Chevy+Malibu+3.6.+Thermostat+housing+torque+spec

Service Manuals

https://www.google.com/search?q=2009+Chevy+Malibu+3.6.+%22service+manual%22

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Question edited for clarity.
Question moved to category.

Air in the system, bad circulation is the most likely cause possible combined with a faulty thermostat. Just $14 for a good thermostat so swap it out.
https://www.carid.com/2009-chevy-epica-thermostats/

All overheated cars smell strange.

https://www.fixya.com/cars/r29872074-vehicle_cooling_system_no_heat

If that doesn't fix it, then you look at the water pump for $32
https://www.carid.com/2009-chevy-epica-water-pumps/

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It is built into a thermostat housing and is located under the throttle body. Just follow the upper hose and the hoses that go to the heater core. You can remove it without taking the exhaust crossover pipe off, but it makes it much easier if you do.

It is normal for the temp to vary as much as 20 to 70 degrees when at idle compared to moving.

Follow top radiator hose to the engine it's under the screw down cap, be careful not to knock the thermostat out while removing the cap so you know how the new one goes in. (easy job on most cars)!!!

Just follow yourt top radiator hose,it's in the thermostat housing.

Follow the top radiator hose to where it connects to the engine..there is where the thermostat is.

follow the hose from raidiator on top back to bellhousing take that off thermostat

Its possible the thermostat is not working correctly, but quick changes with the heat is usually from being low on coolant or a problem with the blend doors under the dash.
Your temp gauge should be going up and down if the thermostat is not working right. And it would take a few minutes for a change to be noticed. As the thermostat closed the engine would heat up, then cool down if it opened.

What degree thermostat did you have put in it they make all different degree thermostats.