Heater Core Replacement
What is a heater core?
The heater core looks like a very small radiator, and functions just the same. It's mounted under the dashboard, and it provides the heat needed for the blower motor to warm the cabin.
How does the heater core work?
Hot engine coolant circulates through the heater core. When the driver turns on the heat, the blower motor blows air across the heater core and into the cabin.
What are the symptoms related to a bad heater core?
A failing heater core may cause the car's interior to smell like engine coolant. The smell will become worse when the heater is turned on. The engine may also begin to run hotter until the vehicle is repaired.
The worst-case scenario is the engine overheating, which can cause extensive engine damage.
If the heater core is clogged, the air that blows when the heater is turned on will not be very hot.
Can I drive with a heater core problem?
If the heater core is leaking, don't drive the car. Any coolant leak can lead to an overheated engine. In this situation, towing the vehicle to a repair facility is the best course of action.
When the heater core is clogged, it will not affect drivability, but passenger comfort may suffer.
How often do heater cores need to be replaced?
Most vehicles will never have a problem with the heater core. But if you don't have your cooling system maintained and flushed as part of the car's regular maintenance, the odds of a heater core problem go way up.
How are heater core issues diagnosed?
Heater core diagnosis is as easy as smelling inside the vehicle, and feeling the carpet under the dashboard. The heater core may leak enough coolant onto the carpet to saturate it. If the heater core has not leaked onto the carpet, but the strong smell of coolant is in the vehicle, the heater core is still suspected.
How is a heater core replaced?
This can be a labor-intensive repair, as the dashboard must be removed from the vehicle in most cases to access the heater core. Once engine coolant lines are removed and the heater core is accessed, the new heater core will be installed. After everything is put back together, the heater core is connected to the hoses, and the engine coolant is topped off and bled of air.
RepairPal recommendations for heater core issues
Sticking to the car's maintenance schedule is the best way to prevent heater core problems. The engine coolant used in the vehicle should be the type recommended by the manufacturer.
Quality replacement heater cores have excellent anticorrosive protectants applied inside and outside, and should not need another replacement if the cooling system is maintained.
Can I replace the heater core myself?
Because of the amount of disassembly required, and the fact that airbags often have to be removed, this job is best left to a professional.