There’s nothing worse than getting into your car on a frigid winter morning, cranking up the heat, and being greeted by a blast of cold air. If your car heater isn’t working properly, it can make for an unpleasant and even dangerous driving experience. In this post, we’ll explore the common causes of car heater issues and what you can do to get your heater blowing hot again.
Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Car Heater
The most obvious sign that your car heater isn’t working is, well, a lack of heat. But there are a few other symptoms to watch out for:
- The heater is blowing cold air, even when the engine is warm
- The temperature gauge is running below normal
- There are puddles of coolant under the front of your vehicle
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to investigate further.
What Could Be Causing Your Car Heater Problems?
There are several potential culprits behind a malfunctioning car heater:
- Low coolant levels: Your car’s heating system relies on hot engine coolant to produce warm air. If your coolant levels are low due to a leak, your heater core may not be getting enough warm coolant to generate heat.
- Thermostat issues: A faulty thermostat that’s stuck open can delay engine warm-up and hinder heat production.
- Heater core blockage: Over time, the narrow passages in your heater core can become clogged with rust or debris, limiting coolant flow and heat output.
- Blower fan problems: A broken blower fan won’t be able to circulate warm air into your car’s cabin.
- Stuck heater valve: The valve that controls coolant flow to your heater core can become stuck, preventing warm coolant from reaching the core.
What’s Involved in Repairing a Car Heater?
The specific repair needed will depend on the underlying cause of your heater issues. A skilled mechanic will start by diagnosing the problem, which may involve:
- Checking coolant levels and inspecting for leaks
- Testing the thermostat
- Flushing the heater core to remove blockages
- Inspecting the blower fan and heater valve for proper operation
Once the issue is identified, the faulty component will need to be repaired or replaced. This could be as simple as topping up the coolant or as involved as replacing the entire heater core.
How Much Will It Cost to Fix My Car Heater in New Zealand?
The cost of car heater repairs in New Zealand can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the make and model of your vehicle. Here are some rough estimates:
- Thermostat replacement: $200-$400
- Heater core replacement: $600-$1,000+
- Blower fan replacement: $400-$600
Keep in mind that these are just ballpark figures – the actual cost could be higher or lower based on your specific situation.
Why Choose My Auto Shop for Your Car Heater Repairs?
At My Auto Shop, we understand the importance of a functioning car heater, especially during the colder months. That’s why our skilled mobile mechanics are equipped to diagnose and repair a wide range of heater issues, right at your home or workplace.
We pride ourselves on providing top-notch customer service and transparent, upfront pricing. With our convenient mobile service, you can get your car heater fixed without the hassle of dropping your vehicle off at a shop.
Don’t let a broken heater leave you out in the cold – book an appointment with My Auto Shop today and let us get your heater blowing hot again!