As the temperatures in Spokane start to drop, you’ll likely begin relying on your vehicle’s heater to stay comfortable during your commute. But what happens when your car heater suddenly stops working? A malfunctioning heater isn’t just inconvenient—it can also be a sign of underlying issues within your vehicle’s heating system.
At Tune Tech Full Service Auto Repair, we specialize in auto heater repair to ensure your vehicle’s heating system is working efficiently when you need it most. In this blog post, we’ll discuss common signs of a faulty heater, possible causes of heater problems, and how our experienced technicians in Spokane can get your heater back in top condition.
Signs of Heater Problems
If you notice any of the following issues, it’s time to have your heater checked by a professional:
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No Heat or Low Heat: If you turn the heater on but no warm air comes out or the heat is weak, it’s a clear indicator that something isn’t right. This could be due to a number of issues, such as a malfunctioning blower motor or a coolant leak.
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Strange Smells: A burning or musty smell coming from your vents could be a sign of electrical problems or mold growth in the system. If the smell is accompanied by a lack of heat, you should get the system inspected as soon as possible.
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Unusual Noises: Grinding, whining, or rattling noises when your heater is on could mean there’s something stuck in the fan, or the fan motor could be failing.
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Overheating Engine: An overheating engine coupled with poor heat circulation inside the cabin could mean there’s a coolant leak, or the thermostat is malfunctioning. This requires immediate attention to avoid engine damage.
Common Causes of Heater Problems
Your vehicle’s heater relies on several components working in sync to keep you warm and comfortable. Common causes of heater failure include:
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Low Coolant Levels: The heater core uses the engine’s coolant to generate heat. If your coolant levels are low, the heater won’t function properly. Leaks in the cooling system could cause this issue.
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Faulty Thermostat: If the thermostat is stuck in the closed position, it prevents coolant from flowing into the engine. This can cause the engine to overheat and impact your heater’s performance.
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Blower Motor Problems: The blower motor pushes air through the heater core and into the cabin. If this motor fails, it can lead to weak or no airflow, making it impossible to warm up your car.
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Clogged Heater Core: A clogged heater core can restrict the flow of coolant, leading to poor heating performance. Over time, the heater core can become filled with dirt and debris, especially if you’ve skipped regular maintenance.
Professional Heater Repair in Spokane, WA
At Tune Tech Full Service Auto Repair, we recommend having your vehicle’s heating system inspected regularly to ensure it’s working properly. Our certified technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all types of heater problems, from faulty thermostat issues to clogged heater cores.
If your heater isn’t working as it should, don’t wait for the coldest day of the year to find out. Visit Tune Tech Full Service Auto Repair in Spokane for fast, affordable auto heater repair services. Our team is committed to getting you back on the road with a reliable and fully functional heating system.