Signs of a defective heater
- !The heater does not produce hot air after the engine is warmed up.
- ! On strange smell is noticeable after switching on the heating.
- ! The Fan does not work or only works in one mode.
- ! You discover a coolant leak.
- ! The system is louder than usual and makes grinding and crackling noises.
More on the topic: Rinsing the car radiator yourself
Main reasons for the failure and how you determine them
- Air bubbles or low coolant level.Park your car on a flat surface and let the engine cool down. Open the hood. Remove the coolant expansion tank cap. Check the coolant level and top up if necessary.
- Defective thermostat.Start the engine. Check the lower radiator hose once the temp gauge is above zero. He should be cold. If it immediately warms up, there may be a fault in the thermostat. Check the lower radiator hose once the coolant reaches 85°C. It should be warm to hot. If it's still cold, the thermostat may be defective.
- Clogged heat exchanger and pipes. Clean dirt and debris from the heat exchanger. Remove the heat exchanger and wash it with a special agent.
- Defective fan motor. Check the circuit, especially the contacts. Make sure the carbon brushes and heater fan bearings are not worn.
- Defective heater control valve or heater flap. Visually inspect the heater control valve or heater damper. If you find that the control valve lever is rusted, the rubber seals have dried out, or the heater control valve or heater flap is worn, replace these components.
