Ford Explorer heater problem blowing cold air until after 6 miles of driving on Ford Explorer

Submitted by findleyann · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Ford Explorer owners report experiencing issues with their heater blowing cold air until after 6 miles of driving. These problems may stem from low coolant levels, which can hinder the transfer of heat from the engine to the heater core. Additionally, a clogged heater core can obstruct the flow of hot coolant, resulting in inadequate heating. Some owners also report that air trapped in the cooling system can prevent proper coolant circulation, causing the heater to blow cold air initially. A malfunctioning thermostat may also lead to improper coolant flow, affecting the heater's performance. Furthermore, issues with the blend door actuator can disrupt the mixing of hot and cold air, leading to inconsistent temperature control. To resolve these issues, owners are advised to check coolant levels, purge air from the cooling system, inspect the heater core, test the thermostat, and assess the blend door actuator for proper function.

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Ford Explorer vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected

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