2020 Toyota 86 Heater Isn't Working

Common Causes of Heater Issues in Your 2020 Toyota 86 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 2020 Toyota 86 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 steps to diagnose the heater issue in a 2020 Toyota 86?

To effectively diagnose a heater issue in your 2020 Toyota 86, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the thermostat, as a malfunctioning thermostat can significantly impact heating performance. Next, inspect the coolant level; low coolant can lead to inadequate heating, so ensure it is at the recommended level. Following this, take a closer look at the heater core for any signs of clogs or leaks, as these can severely hinder heat distribution. Additionally, assess the heater control valve to confirm it is operating correctly, as a faulty valve can disrupt the flow of hot air. Don’t forget to test the blower motor, which is crucial for circulating warm air throughout the cabin. Finally, keep an eye out for any coolant leaks in the system, as these can lead to a drop in coolant levels and exacerbate heating issues. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve heater problems in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the heater to stop working in a 2020 Toyota 86?

When troubleshooting a heater malfunction in a 2020 Toyota 86, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One frequent issue is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can prevent the engine from reaching the optimal temperature needed for the heater to function effectively. Additionally, coolant leaks can significantly impact heater performance by reducing the fluid available to circulate through the heater core, leading to insufficient heat. Another potential culprit is the heater core itself; if it becomes clogged or fails, hot coolant cannot flow properly, resulting in a cold cabin. Furthermore, a non-functional blower motor will inhibit the distribution of warm air, rendering the heater ineffective. Lastly, air pockets in the cooling system can disrupt the flow of coolant, further contributing to heating issues. By identifying these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address heater issues in their Toyota 86.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning heater in a 2020 Toyota 86?

Addressing a non-functioning heater in your 2020 Toyota 86 is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical safety concern that should be prioritized. A malfunctioning heater can lead to uncomfortable driving conditions, especially in colder climates, where the absence of heat can distract the driver and compromise focus on the road. Moreover, the heater is essential for defrosting the windshield, which is vital for maintaining visibility during adverse weather. Ignoring this issue could also signal underlying problems within the vehicle's cooling system, potentially leading to more severe engine performance issues and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is crucial to act promptly when faced with heater issues to ensure both passenger comfort and vehicle safety, preventing further complications that could arise from neglect.

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