Winter is in full swing, which means you’ll be switching from using your vehicle’s air conditioner to the heater. If you’ve already started using your heater, you might have noticed it’s not working as well as it used to. The professionals of Sun Devil Auto are here with a few reasons why your heater might need service to keep you toasty warm while on the road this upcoming winter season.
Air Pocket
Heater hoses and heater cores can sometimes contain air pockets, which may prevent coolant from flowing as it should keep warm air blowing through the cabin of your vehicle. While it might seem unreasonable to need coolant to keep your car warm, the liquid is circulated through the engine to heat it up before funneling it through the heat exchanger. Venting trapped air can help to take care of air pockets, and your vehicle’s cooling system might need to be refilled.
Defective Heater Control Valve
In order for coolant to cycle through the heater core, the heater control valves have to be open. An inspection of the control valve will determine whether it is functioning properly. If it’s determined that your valve isn’t closing as it should, it will need to be replaced.
Open Thermostat
Thermostats that are too cold for your system or are open could prevent your heater from working properly. You can test this by starting your car with a cold engine and feeling the upper radiator hose. It’s only when the engine starts to warm up that you should feel coolant circulating. Afterward, an open thermostat is indicated by a flood of hot coolant.
Electrical Issues
Examples of electrical problems that can prevent your heater from living up to its name include blown fuses, loose wires, and a defective power relay. If it’s determined that a blown fuse is what’s leeching power from your heater, it’s imperative that you find out why the fuse blew in the first place before it is replaced. As you’re checking your car’s electrical components, be sure you don’t forget about the fan motor, which might need to be replaced if it doesn’t spin.
While a working car heater is essential for the colder months of the year, you also want to make sure the rest of your car is ready for the season. For any of your automotive needs from your heater to your hoses, we’re here to help! Give us a call or schedule an appointment today.
