It’s a cold and frosty morning, so you turn on your car’s heater to warm up. However, when you do, only cold air blows from your vents. When you find your car heater is not working, bring it to the experts at Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
Common Reasons Why Your Car Heater Is Not Working
Like many car systems, several parts work together to keep your cabin toasty. Your car’s heater uses the engine’s cooling system and the heater core to warm the cabin. As the coolant passes through a hot engine, it absorbs heat. When the heated coolant reaches the heater core, it warms the surrounding air. Then, a fan blows this warm air into your cabin.
Since your car’s heater relies on the car’s cooling system, a problem in this system will affect your heat. Thus, maintaining your engine’s cooling system can help keep your heater working properly. Typically, these components are the most likely cause of preventing your heat from working.
- Faulty thermostat
- Failing heater core
- Clogged or leaking radiator
- Low coolant levels
- Blown fuse/loose connections
Sometimes, you can narrow down the problem area by the symptoms. Do you have cold air blowing from your vents? This could indicate low coolant levels, a failing heater core, or a faulty thermostat. Perhaps the heater isn’t blowing at all. You may have loose connections, blown a fuse, or your blower motor died.
General Recommended Maintenance For Your Car Heater
Almost every car owner has heard how important it is to perform routine maintenance. Of course, your heating system is no different. Furthermore, since all systems rely on one another to perform, delaying servicing can seriously damage your engine.
- Check your engine coolant levels and color periodically.
Not only will low coolant levels cause your engine to overheat, but it will also affect your cabin heat. Typically, you should check your levels every 3-6 months.
Moreover, old coolant can’t protect against rust and corrosion leaving parts susceptible to damage. As the coolant ages, it will change from a brightly colored liquid to a dark shade of brown. About every 2 years or 30,000 miles, you should flush your cooling system to remove dirt and replace your antifreeze.
- Replace the cabin air filter routinely.
A clogged cabin air filter can strain your car’s heating system making components work harder, shortening their lifespan. Parts like your motor blower and fan are susceptible to overheating and failure from excessive use. Usually, you should change this filter every 15,000 miles.
- Inspect your hoses and connections.
Some of the plumbing in your car’s cooling system consists of rubber hoses. Over time, hoses can become dry and cracked. Similarly, parts that seal connections like gaskets, seals, and O-rings, can deteriorate. Finally, hose clamps can loosen and break as they age.
A failure of any one of these parts can allow coolant to leak out. If you have consistently low coolant, you probably have a leak. Generally, your technician will inspect all these parts during your regularly scheduled coolant flush. However, you should make an appointment with your technician as soon as possible if you suspect a leak.
FAQs About Your Vehicle Air System
If you’re stumped about why your car heater is not working, call Xpress Lube of Kernersville at 336-993-7697. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions associated with your cabin heater.
Can I Drive My Car If The Heater Is Not Working?
Although it’s safe to drive with a broken heater, you shouldn’t delay getting it fixed. First, it can be uncomfortably cold driving in the winter without heat. Additionally, you’ll need your heater to defog the inside of your windshield. Reduced visibility due to foggy windows will make driving hazardous. Finally, if the problem lies with your car’s cooling system, ignoring it may cause extensive engine damage.
How Easy Is It To Fix Car Heater Problems?
Truthfully, it depends on what is causing the problem. For example, replacing a heater core is a difficult job requiring experience. However, adding antifreeze to raise your coolant levels is easy. Nevertheless, if you consistently find low coolant levels, you probably have a leak requiring expert help.
If I Have Low Coolant, Can I Add Antifreeze?
Your car’s cooling system requires a 50/50 blend of water and antifreeze to run optimally. Some manufacturers will premix this coolant solution for you. If you’re performing a flush, you must replace the liquid with a coolant mixture. However, if you’re low on coolant, just add antifreeze to your overflow tank.
Why Should I Choose Havoline® Xpress Lube Of Kernersville?
We have been helping car owners maintain their vehicles for over 25 years. Our ASE-certified technicians can repair and service any domestic or foreign vehicle:
- Transmissions
- Wheel alignments
- Electrical diagnostics
- Exhaust systems
- Brakes
- Air conditioning
- Fuel systems
- Cooling systems
- Oil changes
- Steering and suspension
- Car washes
- Automobile detailing
- And more!
Our locally-owned auto repair shop uses modern diagnostic equipment to determine and fix your issues quickly. We perform high-quality, guaranteed service you can trust in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. You’ll notice the difference as soon as you walk in our doors! To us, you’re more than just a customer, you’re also family.
You don’t have to freeze this winter if your car heater is not working! Make an appointment with the experts at Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Simply call us at 336-993-7697 or use our easy online form.
