A vehicle's heater core can become clogged with dirt or contaminants over time, requiring maintenance or replacement. A faulty thermostat is usually to blame for a heating system breaking down. Automotive thermostats do two jobs: warming up your vehicle's engine to its ideal temperature and regulating the engine's temperature for optimal performance. Tools and equipment to repair vehicle heating systems include sockets and pliers to remove bolts holding the thermostat in place, screwdrivers to remove thermostat clamps, hoses, buckets to replace radiator fluid, and gaskets to lock the thermostat in place.