Keeping Warm on the Road: A Guide to Car Heater Repair

There's nothing worse than being stuck in a cold car during the winter months with a broken heater. As temperatures drop, it becomes essential to have a functioning heater in your vehicle to keep you warm and comfortable while driving.

Lukewarm air

One common issue that drivers face with their car heaters is lukewarm air blowing from the vents instead of hot air. This could be caused by many things, from cooling issues to the heater core. To diagnose the problem, start by checking the coolant level in your vehicle. If it's low, top it off and see if that resolves the issue. If not, it may be time to replace the thermostat or flush out the heater core to remove any blockages.

Strange sounds

Another frequent problem with car heaters is strange noises coming from the system when turned on. These noises can range from rattling and banging to hissing and squealing sounds. In most cases, these noises are indicative of a malfunctioning blower motor or fan assembly. To fix this issue, you'll likely need to replace the blower motor or fan assembly to ensure proper airflow through the vents and eliminate any unusual sounds coming from your heater.

Odd smells

The heater core is responsible for circulating hot coolant through the system to provide heat in the cabin. When it develops a leak, coolant can escape and create an odor inside the vehicle, resulting in a syrupy, sweet smell. Replacing a leaking heater core requires disassembling parts of the dashboard and can be a complex job best left to professional mechanics.

Not working

In some cases, your car's heater may simply stop working altogether, leaving you without any heat while driving in cold weather. This could be caused by a blown fuse, faulty blower motor resistor, or wiring issues within the heating system. Check your owner's manual for guidance on locating and replacing fuses related to the heating system. If that doesn't solve the problem, have a professional inspect and repair any electrical components that may be causing issues with your car's heater.

Don't let a broken car heater ruin your winter driving experience. Take action to diagnose and repair any issues before temperatures drop too low. By understanding common problems with car heaters and how to address them, you can stay warm and comfortable on the road all season long.

Learn more from a company near you like F.A.T.S. Parts.