It is not a valve, but a sensor. Located directly below the thermostat, on the passengerside of the block. A 2 wire connector. If you pull off the connector and test the sensor with an ohmmeter, you should get a reasonably high reading at 40F (about 2200 0hms) and about 220 0hms at 200F (engine hot). So, if you get a low 0hm reading at a cold temp, it is time to replace the sensor.

If you replace it, replace the thermostat at the same time, some antifreeze needs to be drained, about 1 quart or so, to keep the spillage manageable. If you are really good :>) then you can remove the ECT sensor and plug the hole with a finger and replace it with the rew one with only spilling a drop or two!!

But a new OEM thermostat is probably due anyway... Just those pesky T40 bolts. Which reminds me, dealers have replacement bolts that are 10mm hex heads instead of the hard to get off Torx.

BTW, it is quite acceptable to give 50% throttle when trying to start an unreasonable car.

Klaus
--
Always willing to listen, just not able to take direction.