Get yourself one of those 20 dollar heaters you plug into the cigarette lighter. that way you can leave the heat off and you engine will warm up a little faster.
and yeah, $95 is ridiculous for a stat change.
I have found the quickest way to warm up is to drive around in second gear for a few minutes. I certainly wouldnt try it on the highway, but if youre keeping it under 40, that will warm you up a little quicker too. I also dont turn the heat on until the needle reaches the bottom line (140 degrees)
