Heat Not Working? Check Your Heater Core

So, you tried to turn on your heat for the first time since last winter. You started your vehicle, and let it warm up. But when you turned on the heat, nothing happened. Only cold air blew out of the vents. What could be the problem? Your vehicle’s heater core may be to blame.

What is a heater core?

A heater core looks a lot like a radiator. It has fins and coolant from your engine flows through it. There is a blower motor and a fan that pushes air across your heater core. This air is the warm air that comes out of your vehicle’s vents when you turn on the heat. That’s why your engine must be warm before your heat will work. The coolant that flows through your heater core gets hot by pulling heat away from your engine and pushing it through your heater core. 

Why isn’t my heat working?

It could be several components in your vent and heating system, like your cabin air filter, blower motor, fan, or a fuse. First, make sure you regularly replace your cabin air filter so that air can pass through it. When it gets clogged, it’s difficult for the air to flow through it, into your car. Next, make sure you regularly flush your coolant. Properly maintaining your coolant system will keep your heater core from becoming clogged with rust, particles, and other debris that may collect in your coolant. These two maintenance items can go a long way in protecting your vehicle’s heating system and making sure it always works as well as it should. 

If your heat stops working, you may need to have your heater core flushed to remove a clog in the system. If it can’t be removed by flushing, it may need to be replaced. Other common issues with your heater core include leaking inside your car. If you smell coolant (a sweet, chemical smell) or notice any chemical leaks inside of your car, take your vehicle to a technician at Lynch Ford Chevrolet right away. Not only is a leaking heater core a sign of a serious issue, it can also ruin your car’s interior and expose you, your family, and your pets to coolant, which is potentially dangerous. 

Since your vehicle’s heater core is located underneath the dashboard, it’s important to take your vehicle to a technician who has the right tools and knowledge. Removing delicate interior parts can risk damage and potential coolant spills inside your vehicle. The highly-trained technicians at Lynch Ford Chevrolet have all the right tools to do the job safely and without damaging your interior. 

If you find that your heat isn’t working properly or would like to have your cabin air filter changed and coolant flushed to keep it functioning well, contact the service team at Lynch Ford Chevrolet today to schedule an appointment.