heaterWinter is coming and your car heater isn’t properly working. You might think that this is the right time to visit a car repair service station. Any sign of the heater not producing warm air should always be taken seriously.

Why Your Car HVAC Malfunctioned?

But, before solving the problem, you need to determine why your car heater is blowing cold air. So let’s find the problem with your car:

  • A clogged heater core
  • A fault in the heater switching system
  • A chocked cabin air filter, disrupting the airflow

Cause and Solution of Car Heater Malfunction

Now let’s determine the issue and solve it using some simple techniques:

1.    A Clogged or Faulty Heater Core

The heater core keeps the air in the cabin warm. But, sometimes rust and salt deposited on the coolant block the fine tube. Since the fine tube is responsible for circulating hot water, the blockage will result in insufficient or no heat. In this condition, many car owners visit professionals. However, they can solve this problem at home. Here’s how you can clean the blocked core:

  • The first step would be removing the dashboard. But because this might turn off the airbags, you need to take out the battery’s terminal from the engine compartment
  • Now take out the dashboard
  • Find the heater core and take it out
  • Blow or pass water into the core and check for the blockage
  • Replace the core and put the heater core back

2.    A Faulty Switch

If you didn’t find any blockage in the heater core, a faulty HVAC switch might be the issue. To fix the heater switch we need to replace the switch and turn on the heat. Here is what you are going to do:

  • Check for the fuse in the fuse box. If you notice a blown fuse, you need to replace it.
  • If you hear the clicking sound coming from the dashboard, when you turn on the heat, try replacing the switch.
  • Sometimes the automatic climate control system is the problem. In this case, you need to tune the temperature all the way from the dial.
  • When both AC and heater are on, you won’t feel the hot air in the cabin. Therefore, you need to turn off the AC.

3.    A Choked Cabin Air Filter

The car’s air system contains air filters, which clean the air and prevent the HVAC exchanger from blocking. The heater and AC won’t work with chocked filters. Fixing this issue takes 10 to 15 minutes. Here is what you need to do:

  • Use the owner’s manual and find the cabin air filter. In most cars, you’ll find it behind the glove box.
  • Remove and check the filter for dust and leaves blocking the airflow.
  • Purchase a new filter and replace them.

Most car HVAC malfunctions because of the above reasons. Furthermore, following the instructions above, you can solve those problems. Still, if you can’t determine the main problem, you can visit a professional.