Winter is Coming – Did You Service Your Car’s Heater?

If you haven’t checked your vehicle’s heater yet, now is the time. You don’t want to wait until it’s cold and you need your heater before you try to turn it on for the first time. It’s a good idea to bring your vehicle into our Toyota service center for winter service (before winter starts) and have us inspect the heater at the same time.

Common Car Heater Problems

When you turn the dial to turn your heat on and there isn’t any hot air, there are a few issues that could be affecting its performance. Don’t run out and start replacing parts immediately. Check your owner’s manual and call our service center if you need assistance.

Thermostat is Worn Out

If the temperature of the air coming out of your heater isn’t hot, it could be a problem with the vehicle’s thermostat. The thermostat may be preventing the coolant from getting warm enough to heat your vehicle and it could need replacing.

Restriction preventing flow of coolant

If the thermostat is working correctly you probably have something blocking the heating lines. The heater core can experience sediment build up, and the line will need to be flushed.

Heater Servicing

Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find out when you should have your heater serviced. Most vehicles recommend servicing at 30,000 miles. Purchase a flush kit to help you complete the task.

• Flush the radiator
• Check heater core and hoses for sediment build up
• Replace the thermostat
• Refill the radiator with antifreeze. (Check the owner’s manual to see what the right mixture is for seasonable temperature changes)

 

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