2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Heater Isn't Working

Common Causes of Heater Issues in Your 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
31% chance it's the
Heater Blower Motor
0%
18% chance it's the
Heater Blower Motor Resistor
0%
51% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee heater isn't working are a broken heater blower motor, a problem with the thermostat, or a failed heater blower motor resistor.
  • Heater Blower Motor: A faulty heater blower motor can result in inadequate airflow or no air circulation in the cabin, affecting the heating system's performance.
  • Heater Blower Motor Resistor: A faulty heater blower motor resistor can cause inconsistent fan speeds or complete failure of the blower motor.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the heater isn't working in a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

When your 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee's heater isn't functioning, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the thermostat, as a malfunctioning thermostat can disrupt the heating process. Next, inspect the coolant level; low coolant can significantly affect the heater's performance. If the coolant is adequate, turn your attention to the heater core, looking for any signs of clogs or leaks that could impede heat transfer. Additionally, test the heater blower motor to ensure it is operational, as a non-functioning blower will prevent warm air from circulating. Finally, examine the blend door actuator, which controls the flow of air and temperature within the HVAC system; a faulty actuator can lead to improper temperature regulation. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the heating issue in your Jeep, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the heater to stop working in a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

When troubleshooting heater issues in a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the first things to check is the coolant level; low coolant can significantly hinder the heater core's ability to generate warm air. If the coolant is at an adequate level, the next step is to inspect the thermostat, as a malfunctioning thermostat may prevent the engine from reaching the optimal temperature, resulting in insufficient heat. Additionally, the heater core itself can be a source of trouble; clogs or leaks can restrict hot coolant flow, leading to poor heating. It's also important to examine the blower motor, as a failure here can stop heated air from circulating into the cabin. Lastly, consider the possibility of an air pocket in the cooling system, which can disrupt coolant flow and affect heat transfer. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve heater problems in your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning heater in a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Addressing a non-functioning heater in your 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not just a matter of comfort; it is a pressing safety concern that requires immediate attention. When the heater fails, driving in cold weather becomes uncomfortable and can lead to serious health risks, such as frostbite or hypothermia, especially during extreme winter conditions. Moreover, a malfunctioning heater compromises the vehicle's defrosting capabilities, which can severely reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents. Beyond these immediate concerns, the heater's failure may indicate deeper issues within the vehicle's heating system, such as problems with the heater blower motor, thermostat, or heater blower motor resistor. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more significant damage and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to address a non-functioning heater promptly to ensure your safety, maintain comfort, and protect your vehicle from further complications.

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2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Heater Issues & Solutions