Bad Heater Core Symptoms-10 Tell Tail Signs That You Have a Heater Core Problem

[@dandeleona4760]

The BEST diagnostics breakdown I've seen in 20+ DIY videos. Thanks for posting! :)

[@DespairRepair]

Thank you for watching! 🙂

[@goshini3481]

I think I need to find this guy and give him 100eur for this video...GREAT VIDEO,THANKS FRIEND! You said everything that we need to know/learn!

[@Bonbonbon739]

For the last month, I started having an over pressurized system on my Chrysler 200. Then my windshield started fogging up. And then I noticed it was wet eventually where my gas pedal is. Every symptom you described happened to me one after another. Right now I just ran a bypass by connecting both firewall hoses to each other. And now it’s fine but I know I have to get it replaced. Luckily I live in Florida. Thanks for your video so I know it’s for a fact the heater core

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and glad that the video helped 🙂. Also, congrats on the repair, being resourceful and temporarily solving the problem.

[@muaythaimonkee882]

Honestly hit everything on the nail. Appreciate you fam

[@DespairRepair]

Thanks for watching!

[@orlandobullock9783]

Great video!!!! This definitely helped me troubleshoot my problem heater core problem. Thanks!!!

[@DespairRepair]

Thank you for the nice comment, for watching, and glad if the video helped!

[@Kalyan553]

Excellent description of the problem . Very thorough 👍👍👍

[@DespairRepair]

Thank you for watching and for the kind comment 🙂

[@bogdanpopovicmd]

Such a good explanation, simple and logical, just something what I needed.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, thanks for the nice comment and for watching! Hope the video helps

[@paulfroese1469]

Despair repair, thank you for this video on symptoms of a bad heater core. That's my problem because I have the moist floor on passenger side. Fog on window shield, and have to add coolant. Thank you so much. 🎉😅❤

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and glad if the video helped 🙂

[@Sejin_Song]

I was severely burned on my right foot by the hot coolant leak from the heater core on my 30-year old Cadillac. The leaked coolant flowed to the driver's space via air duct. I didn't previously recognize the coolant leak to the floor carpet of the passenger seat. I feel good as there was no passenger while I was driving. She could have been burned more severely than me if she was with me at the time. Your video is nice when viewed after the big incident a month ago! 😛

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, thanks for watching and I hear you 🙂. I had a situation where the heater core leaked while driving and started to produce a thick fog inside the passenger cabin. A smoke machine is an understatement 🙂. Glad that everyone was OK and thank you for the kind words.

[@brentderouen7608]

Perfect. Easy to understand. Thank you for this video!

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@dbspecials1200]

I got my 1st mechanic job in 1984. I always tell people to change their coolant regularly. over time the pH levels get high, it becomes more acidic, and combine that with the cheaper metals they are using today, it's not the old copper-brass -which also eventually rots. I do my coolant every summer, but don't go more than two years, imo. change every fluid, even the brake & power steering. most cars today have a rack & pinion so change that fluid out to have a long life for that unit. I'll stop here so I don't go on and on all day.. 😉🏁🏁🏁

[@DespairRepair]

Thanks for watching and for sharing 🙂🙂

[@wwShadow7]

I hear the hissing, while most other symptoms are not obviously present. 2nd video on this subject I watched. But it is only one that confirmed my suspicion. I would have never suspected from the overflow cap, it sounds more like from the glove box in the driver seat (and might be, but I recently had the overflow cap replaced). And the hiss continued for five minutes after engine shutoff. The film on the window is another not recognized by me symptom mentioned. It's a 19yo car, I expected more corrosion than the other causes. Since radiator fluid is known to be highly corrosive. But the thermostat and related things have been replaced twice in the past two years. First time was a busted plastic housing to the thermostat (the replacement part was metal). The second actually triggered a check engine light. I cooked the engine on the first one, but I did pull over in time to save it (mostly). Very frequent oil changes and complete hose replacements, and other related failure of parts recently replaced. But back to normal-ish now, except heater core.

[@jcapo41]

Hey man, thanks for video. I was just wondering if i have a bad heater core, what would mechanic/body shop do to fix it? I know getting one replaced would be $800-$1000 which is a really big expense. Thank you

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! I didn't understand the question, do you mean what would they have to do for that amount of money? And it is big money. If this is your question then in most cases they have to take off the dashboard, lower parts of the trim, side panels, basically almost the whole front part of the cabin interior. Done it myself on a couple of cars. Except a couple of situations, paying for a replacement is worth every cent. Hope this helps.

[@dzhozefvelikiy]

Great video btw, My 98 Chevy Cavalier has those symptoms of leaking on the passenger side and the hissing sound after running it but I also noticed my coolant is leaking from my heater hose but not from the pipe itself seems like deeper than that

[@Budweiser-jh9uj]

Sooooo I have one of these issues. When I turn on my air or heat I smell coolant for the first ten seconds. I don't have any leaks or wet carpets or any of these other issues. I'm wording if my issue would be a small leak where the hoses go to the heater core in the engine bay. Cause the smell goes away after a couple seconds. My coolant been same level no drips nothing u listed besides the smell for 10 seconds... What would u recommend?

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! Well, that's a tricky one. As you've described it, it seems you have a problem that's just started. The best thing to do would be to make a thorough inspection if possible. Maybe it's not anything serious, maybe it's a loose clamp or something. But if it's a cracked or damaged hose, cracked heater core or else, now's the time to react so it doesn't get worse. If it bursts, you can loose coolant really fast. Hope this helps.

[@Budweiser-jh9uj]

@@DespairRepair thank tou

[@DespairRepair]

@@Budweiser-jh9uj you're welcome

[@xsfun05]

Oh thanks a lot. Extremely helpful video. I got my answer which I was looking since last two weeks.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, thanks for watching, glad the video helped, and thanks for the kind words 🙂

[@NEVER4LDSIX82]

Took my car in for a service recently and was told I had a bad heater core. It leaks under the bottom of the car near the rear. I’m loosing a lot of coolant even if I don’t use the aircon or heater in the car. I get warm and cold air when I turn it on. What could it be? I got quoted $3000 - $5000 😢to replace the heater core. But judging by watching a lot of videos regarding the matter I have doubts that it’s the heater core( well I’m hoping not) I have a 2011 Laredo Jeep grand Cherokee.

[@guesswho2660]

My cabin doesn’t only wet the carpets it has enough to look like a full bucket. Could it still be the heater core? At one time in the summer I can see it dripping from where the heater core is like a leaky faucet.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! Just smell the liquid if you can. If it smells like coolant, it's the heater core. If it's water, you probably have an external leak somewhere.

[@janicedavis9592]

Mine doesn't leak on passenger side inside

[@wwShadow7]

I knew a guy that messed around with the cooling duct work and messed it up. When he ran the air conditioning it would leak the condensation inside the car. So check the smell, my sense of smell was never great, so not always an option for me. If water, rubbing it on a window should clean it? If coolant, the smearing mentioned in this video. I've had heavy rains where moving the car to a downhill facing position had it leak out of the ceiling by the rear view mirror. Which might explain why the radio died years ago. Not the only cause, but check it anyways.

[@kashifdaniels678]

That was an amazing presentation. It was so informal that helped a lot

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@sand0077]

Very good info, this confirms my suspicions of a leaking heater core which equates to either me doing the repair or a hefty shop repair bill or just bypassing the heater entirely😢

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! From personal experience, it all depends on what car you have. If it's a more repair-friendly car try doing it yourself but often times it's better to pay someone. Bypassing is a good option if you live in a warmer climate but should be considered a temporary solution.

[@Alejandra-cv7rj]

Of you got a vehicle 20 plus years it might be a good idea to replace it if your taking apart the price of whole dash plan to do it on my truck to fix the actuators and some other stuff.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! Yes, especially if you plan to take your car to a mechanic to do the work (if I understood the answer correctly). The price of labor costs multiple times more than the part itself. But if you're planning to do it on your own and you have enough patience and some knowledge around cars and tools, there is logic in doing it. This is from experience. 🙂 Best of luck with the repair.

[@zarekjones827]

@@DespairRepair hello I’m a new mechanic and am curious if I need to burp my coolant system after installing a new heater core I would assume a new one would have air in it witch would back cycle into the system if I’m right any help is appreciated thanks!!

[@DespairRepair]

@@zarekjones827 hi and thanks for watching! Yes, in most cases you'll need to vent the system especially if you've let out all of the coolant from the whole system. If it's just from the heater core, then you might not have to.

[@DespairRepair]

@KirCh4rT hi and thanks for watching! You're right, having a manual will save a lot of time, nerves and causing damage to the interior when taking everything apart. Just like to say regarding the fog, did you check if there's a leak somewhere in the passenger cabin? Constant moisture in the cabin can also be a cause for fogging up.

[@DespairRepair]

@KirCh4rT if you don't mind, I would suggest trying to see if there's proper coolant flow. If possible on your car, when the engine starts heating up, try touching the upper and lower hose on the radiator if they are both warm. If they are, you'll know that the flow is OK, if not then you may have a thermostat problem a clog, or else. Simple way, just keep your hands safe from burns and from the radiator fan. Sorry if I'm patronizing, just wanted to help. Best of luck with the repair.

[@astrolee2]

Great video , very helpful.

[@ericcunningham1868]

I still have good heat but my floor driver side floor board started getting wet while it was dry today and I have been using a lot of antifreeze. Could there be another problem besides the heater core causing the overheating?

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! If there's a strong smell of coolant form the floor, then the heater core is the probable cause. It can also be a punctured hose to the heater core, loose clamps, perhaps a bad valve (depending on the car type). All in all, it would be something related to the heater core if not the heater core itself.

[@DespairRepair]

So, check the floor first, If it's just water search for another cause of problems.

[@seatime674]

🧐Moral of the story, turn on your heat lever or switch at least once a year for awhile so coolant floods the heater core keeping it flushed and clean so it doesn't clog

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! Correct 🙂

[@seatime674]

@@DespairRepairLong time ago Bought a Brand New Expedition in 1999, had 12 miles from dealer on it for my mom, she hated heat always ran warm and only turned it to heat once or twice in the 15 years we had it. Went to use it, ice cold air only!!!!.. We had to cut the firewall hose lines flush it with a garden hose and use massive chemicals and then slowly heat started to come back.. We just left it on heat indefinitely so the valve stayed open it could circulate and unclog more

[@seatime674]

@@DespairRepair Most people don't realize coolant only floods the heater core when you turn the heat on and the actuator opens, otherwise it's a closed loop from the entire system

[@DespairRepair]

@@seatime674 yes and I think that's perhaps the main cause of most problems, both leaks, and clogs. Congratulations on solving the problem, flushing certainly beats replacing the heater which is a nasty job 🙂

[@jamesdyson9185]

Will a bad heater core cause the AC to be mixed with Hot air?

[@Wiz-kidddd]

I appreciate this video My windshield keeps fogging up out of nowhere, now I know

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@mixofcolours8137]

Hi boss I have a class Mercedes in the morning before start the engine I feel sweet smell of coolant and driving time when push the gas padel hard accelerating sweet smell getting more and more coolant gauge is getting low dropping but no any symptoms of leak inside of the car or under hood heater is works getting heat in car I'm the same time in cold weather I can see the fogs on car windscreen and other windows rear glass too I don't know what's that please cam you gave me some guidance please thanks???

[@peskybobcat]

Can you just not use your heater to stop the leak?

[@user-tm4fn2nl2v]

I got my heater core replaced by a mechanic, it was working the day he fixed it and it was fantastic, a week later back to how it was before i got it fixed heat not working when i put it on mix. What could it be???

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! There could be numerous reasons. The most common problem especially after a heater core replacement is that there may be pockets of air left over in the system.

[@user-tm4fn2nl2v]

@@DespairRepair how do they get the pockets of air out, and thanks for commenting?

[@DespairRepair]

@@user-tm4fn2nl2v they vent the system. On some cars it's simple, it can be done by just loosening the coolant bottle cap or the radiator cap (if there is one), turning on the engine, and letting the coolant circulate. The air eventually gets out. On some, it has to be vented via vent screws located on the coolant system. A bit more fuss but not that complicated.

[@kjarby69]

My 2008 Ford Escape looks like it has a bad , clogged or leaky heater. 😔 Loss of coolant each month. Twice engine overheated. During the cold weather was when i discovered it might be at the heater. Fogging up windshield and windows with an oily film. Difficult to wipe off with hand. Noticed steam coming out the passenger vent inside. Smell of coolant inside. Sight of water dripping from a hose the outside on firewall.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! With all those symptoms, it seems it is.

[@MrHussain1998]

Hi thanks for the video, I could do with some advice, I’m not sure if my heater core is the problem, I’m only having two of all these symptoms from what I can tell, Engine over heating (if I accelerate with full power the temperature drops back down to 90°) this happens constantly. No hot heaters, it gets warm here and there but it’s cold most of the time, it gets warmer if it put it on the recirculating setting. Last thing, timing belt and water pump was changed recently

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! I'll go straight to the point: I would definitely first check the thermostat. If there isn't a good coolant flow, then the heating won't work either and the whole system may overheat.

[@MrHussain1998]

@@DespairRepair oh forgot to mention, thermostat, water pump and timing belt all replaced

[@DespairRepair]

@@MrHussain1998 so the coolant flow is OK? The coolant fan starts when it should and both of the coolant hoses on the radiator are equally hot? Did you check the valve that lets coolant inside the heater? Anyway, what's the car?

[@MrHussain1998]

@@DespairRepair the coolant and fan all seems to be fine, no lights on dash nothing, I’ve even had the coolant flushed out a couple of times. I’m gonna try flushing the heater core in a few days and hope that fixes the issue. The car is a Skoda superb 2.0tdi 2010

[@DespairRepair]

@@MrHussain1998 well it can't hurt to give it a try in any case. Again I would also check the valve for the heater core. By the way, very nice car 🙂

[@brandeccohall]

I noticed a smell of coolant coming from the front of my 2012 Ford F150 yesterday and my coolant was a low. I just added coolant a month ago. Today, I drove about 10-20 miles, and when I stopped at a stop sign and there was a tone of steam coming from under the hood on the passenger side. When I possed the hood, there was coola t all over mt engine. The reservoir cap was on. I kept hearing a hissing sound ever few second coming from the back of the engine on the passenger side. My engine didn't overheat and I haven't had issues with my heat, in fact my heater has worked great. It was pouring rain so I ha en't been able to check anything yet. But could a bad heater core cause the coolant to spray all over my engine like that? I'd appreciate some feedback. Also, is this an easy replacement? I have little knowlege on cars, but I do my own oild changes, have replaced a water pump, and changed a variable timing solenoid valve myself.

[@ScolarshipBoy1984]

Howdy ..what everr happend?

[@jgabuten8868]

What happens if they bypass the cabin heater despite steam coming out of ventilation when heater is turned on. After engine radiator replacement. It overheated again. Mech said in order to cut your losses trade it in coz there's a chance for more problems. From your video alone heater core was my car's culprit. There was leak coz of the steam venting out and related leaks?from hoses aside from d core.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! I'm sorry I really didn't understand the whole situation but from what I did, here's what I think: If the heater core was drained and bypassed, there shouldn't be any leaks or steam whatsoever. Also, you're overheating may be caused by some other problem and that may then have caused the heater core to leak. In any case, if the heater core was the actual problem, for overheating, bypassing it should have solved the problem completely. You just won't have cabin heating

[@mixofcolours8137]

I have a class Mercedes 2014 1.6 petrol before start the car i feel sweet smell of coolant and after 3 or 5 days dropping the coolant level and in cold weather windscreen and other windows getting fogs on classes when i starting the heater for 5 or 8 minutes from 2 heater vent cold air coing after 20 minutes getting better what can be the problem please and the same time engine gauge temperature 90 or 39 . But when pulling up the hood i can feel the more heat feels in engine what can be thanke

[@danwilhite]

Excellent video! Thank you! 👍

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome, thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@smarinovic390]

Hello I have Audi a4 2.0 tdi 2019. I have't noticed the wet carpets only thing sometimes A/C is not working properly when heating. I brought my car to regular maintenace and they spotted coolant leak on the water pump, also they said the heat core should be replaced. It is strange to me such a young car and this things need to be done. I then asked them is it possible to clean the heater core somehow since it is the last thing I wamt to take off the complete interior to change something that can be unclogged in another way....

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! Regarding the heater core, there's a possibility to do a flush but this is only theoretical. Audi has a pretty crammed engine bay and it all depends on where the heater core connections are and how they are mounted. The damage may have nothing to do with the car but perhaps the coolant. If the wrong coolant was used, it can easily cause both the water pump and heater core problems (this is just a suggestion). But did you take a look at the evaporator drain tube for the AC? These are known to get clogged over time on lots of VW cars and cause a wet floor.

[@therealman5522]

I changed my heater core, and I’m still getting a steamed cabin, like the coolant vapors are coming through the vents, maybe I have to replace the hoses?

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! If the vapors smell like coolant, then there's something wrong. If so, there must be a leak somewhere very near the heater core or on the core itself. If it doesn't smell like coolant, then you might have a condensation problem, like when the cabin is moist or wet somewhere.

[@dripperception1702]

My 94 mustang was sitting and coolant system was gumped up I noticed the fog on windshield only twice. but I need to change thermostat after flushing the system… I noticed that I’ve seen the windshield fog only twice but will it do that only due to overheating? I have no leaks on floorboard or coolant smell but when it gets hot u smell it in cab evaporating. It sometimes starts to blow warm but not hot and will go cold. I assume it is probably clogged due to the coolant system getting gummed up and clogging the heater core??? So is it a no brained to change it? I just got the car and it is overheating I’m doing thermostat tomorrow just wondering if this could fix the no heat issue as I am still bleeding the air from coolant after flush and coolant change. Or does the low or no heat issue automatically mean it’s the heater core? Anybody

[@BruceDavis2301]

03 durango with 274000+ miles is starting to fog the windshield up but I had that heater core replaced MAYBE 2 years ago. The labor is the killer vs buying another heater core. Much rather buy another vehicle and just keep my durango for running to the store, errands etc

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! You're right this is the main problem with heater core replacement. The part is only 10 to 20 percent of the price. The rest are labor fees (in most cases).

[@GweGwe-lu9ob]

I have a 02 Chevy Silverado and I’ve replaced my thermostat my water pump and I replaced my radiator cap with and my heater hose about a year ago because that was leaking but now I’m here the last 3 months have been a train wreck with my truck I need help I think it could be my heater core my truck is overheating but no leaks in the cab but I’m losing coolant does it always leak into the cab or no does a clogged heater core cause coolant loss? I’ve gotten my head gaskets both of them when I did my engine rebuild so I’m confident that it’s not that and my oil is clean as a whistle no coolant whatsoever so that’s good but my truck is still overheating and losing coolant BUT FROM WHERE I can’t say. My local shop I took it to them twice and they replaced the water pump and fan clutch I’m just getting pissed off because this truck is my passion and it’s pushing 400hp it’s a clean ass truck but I just want my truck back on the road running right please help anyone I also live in California it’s hot as fuck right now can that have a effect on coolant levels?

[@brandonjohnson9653]

Did u figure it out ?

[@GweGwe-lu9ob]

@ yup it was a head gasket I got new ones and got rid of those shitty stock head bolts, and studded those bitches. It’s funny because I got my parts off summit and I never had an issue with summits parts till then. It’s funny tho because my truck did pass a head gasket test but the crack was so small on the gasket it was just burning on the block instead of getting into the cylinders that’s why I had no symptoms besides losing coolant

[@meaderanizer228]

Superb Video! Thank You 👏👌

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@zombiemontage]

This can cause the AC to not blow cold air also right? The heater core is the same as the evaporator core right?

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! The heater shouldn't be the problem in that case, it's only for producing hot air.

[@zombiemontage]

@@DespairRepair ah yes I have just read they are different. I think I may have a leak from the evaporator core because the AC isn't working properly

[@DespairRepair]

@@zombiemontage could be but, to be honest,it could also easily be other things. If possible, check for leaks in the system and perhaps start from there. Hope this helps.

[@nadirkhan7552]

I'm losing coolant on every drive, have wet floor mats, and heater isn't working. Now, how to correct all this and fix it. Few days back, i got the cooling system filled with R34 gas and got the pipe repaired.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! What pipe did you repair? In what place? You'll probably have to replace the heater and then pull all the carpets and insulation out to dry everything up. We made a video about the aftermath of the heater core problem and what happened on my wife's Clio. There you can get a preview of what awaits you in that case.

[@akilifill]

Fantastic video. Thank you so much!

[@mikebarbee2217]

I bought a 98 Dodge Durango about 3 weeks ago. I started to notice fog on the inside of windshield while driving. No coolant leaks under car. I dont notice low coolant level when removing radiator cap. No smell inside cabin of coolant. Im scared its the heater core, but no symptoms other than the fog inside windshield. ????

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, and thanks for watching! Perhaps try checking the cabin filter first.

[@CakeLoverHtml]

When I turn heater on the coolant leaks. Why this ?

[@josualnew1512]

Best video about this matter outthere

[@DespairRepair]

Thank you for watching!

[@lindajohnson7923]

Very helpful! Thank you

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@babyjeff10]

I have 2010 nissan versa and I can see it leak coolant from one for the pipes there when i remove the plastic cover next to the pedals. What can I do?

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, thanks for watching, and sorry for the late reply! Sorry to say, but it seems you'll have to change the heater core. But before that make sure 100% it's the problem. Try to make some clearance (remove plastic panels and else) to make sure where the leak is coming from. Once again, be sure it's actually the heater core.

[@farhad.b962]

Very useful 👌 thanks 😊

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@Rayray-kn3vh]

Question my heat comes on it’s hot but not supper hot it gets much hotter when driving what do you think it could be I have a mini copper s

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, and thanks for watching! This is normal since the heating starts working at full capacity when the engine reaches working temperature.

[@WyldTaboo]

My car is a 2.2L 96 chevy s10. Just replaced the thermostat. But my vehicle is still overheating. Coolant levels are fine. And there's a puddle on my passenger floor with a trail leading to the heater core so this is probably the obvious problem. I should mention when I drive my truck the temperature levels are fine, its just when I stop... it overheats. Any input?

[@WyldTaboo]

Also no heat from heater while idling.

[@DespairRepair]

@@WyldTaboo hi and thanks for watching! I would definitely check the heater core or the pipes and hoses around it.

[@jamesgarrison3397]

Is it possible to have a bad heater core if you get heat on drives side and cold air on passenger side?

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! From what I've seen, no. In that case, I would rather check the ventilation system.

[@mdushaka6403]

U need to check the blend door on passenger side its stuck closed

[@lario1030]

Same problem heat coming out driver side cold air on passenger side

[@BB-yh7go]

Great video! Thank you!

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@altonlynch5464]

I drove my girlfriends car and turned the heater on, it was blowing cold air then I notice a fog build up on the window right above the heater core. I told her, I think it's your heater core and they aren't easy to change most of the time you have to pull the dash out to get to them. But after watching a few videos, I think there maybe an easier way. they said, the same thing about my truck, pull the dash out. But I was able to remove it and replace it, without much trouble from under the dash.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, thanks for watching and sorry for the late reply. Congrats on doing the job. You're right, lots of times with some fiddling around and thinking things through you can spare yourself a lot of dismantling (and trouble).

[@billrowan1957]

I noticed that to when I drove it but didn't care to mention it.

[@rolexusmonroe3948]

My car leaks from underneath the frame of my car. And my rear defrosters don’t work and my heat doesn’t work. Do you think it’s a clogged heater core

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, and thanks for watching! With these symptoms, I would rather check the radiator, hoses, and else first. Especially if there's a big loss of coolant

[@janicedavis9592]

I have to repeatedly put coolant in my car for air or heat but don't know if it is heater core or water pump

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! You'll have to make an inspection for leaks, if you have to frequently add coolant you should be able to find the leak easily. Regarding the heater core, check the underside of the floormats and the carpets under them if they're wet. This is in most cases the most obvious sign of a heater core problem.

[@lalagee6943]

What if its not leaking at the core but just as the hoses enter the car.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, and thanks for watching! In that case, check the clamps and the hoses.

[@oxanalangley9131]

If you see this. Mine the radiators keep bursting. I replaced thermostat and high speed fan relay already since those were told were bad already. We are on our 3rd radiator since September 2022. The hest is good inside but the van overheats as soon as it get to 55mph rhen it bursts. So we can drive under 50 and did fine for months.

[@michaeldeltadrop782]

Have you replaced your water heater

[@oxanalangley9131]

@@michaeldeltadrop782 heater? The engine I think is what heats it. But thermostat, water pump, and 3 radiators reservoir was removed and cleaned. Heater core flushed no blockage, head gasket checked for exhaust gas in the coolant and tested fine not that is 100% guaranteed. It runs smooth just over heats and fluid just sprays everywhere and today I put a new radiator cap. Running out of ideas. 2 shops have done this repair I did some myself and nothing had been lasting long term. And it's odd can't blame a clogged radiator since 3 are new and failed. Replaced pump assuming it was bad. The only idea I have left is the fan. Yes I put a new relay and it comes on when it got hot it works with ac on. But I don't know if it stops working when the vehicle is driving when these situations happen. Hasn't happened while sitting and us testing. Means the fan isn't dead but does it intermittently stop or fail to come on some times. It what's left in my brain and was hoping someone has a thought. Unless you meant heater core which hasn't been replaced which we flushed and isn't leaking we get good heat until the coolant level drops enough after it overheats.

[@jims2507]

@@oxanalangley9131 I'm no expert, but would a bad radiator cap cause these problems? A fan wouldn't do much when driving 50+ MPH. A radiator fan would mostly be needed at low speeds (you would see temperature rising slowly during summer idling or stopped at a traffic light.)

[@oxanalangley9131]

@@jims2507 it's winter here and it's still getting back pressure somewhere at random times. Did a whole trip 290 miles I used obd 2 elm to monitor Temps and was fine the whole time. Today it happened at a light after 7 miles and the steering and transmission went out. Sat for 30 minutes started and back to normal. And no dash lights or overheat showed up. I took the thermostat out incase it was a doa. But it's mechanism opens fine. Not seeing g any leaks underneath. The radiator cap is new replaced when the 1st new radiator was installed the 2 radiators afterwards didn't change the cap as only the radiator was under warranty. So I am stumped still and this isn't a safe thing to run imo. But 5 families use it and rely on it til someone can get another vehicle to add to the mix.

[@jims2507]

@@oxanalangley9131 What do you mean "still getting back pressure"? Also, it sounds like you're having multiple problems. If your steering and transmission went out, that sounds like you have electric power steering? And electrical problems? Is your battery and alternator OK? Bad ground? Battery terminal(s) crusted up? I have heard that low voltage can cause weird problems with the engine and transmission (I think Scotty and/or South Main Auto said that?) But why electrical problems would show up at a traffic light? Slower idle, engine warmed up maybe? IDK. Good luck with this !!! Test as much as possible instead of replacing parts.

[@Alphasig336]

I had a heater core crack and spray antifreeze on my windshield. I didn’t see a stop sign and got in an accident.

[@oj6924]

thank you so much

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@tyronnesmith6459]

Thank you Guess in tearing a dash out Good thing repl part is only 45 bucks

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching! Yes, that's the worst thing about the whole problem and why it costs so much to fix at a garage or dealership. It's a whole day's work and that's if something doesn't go wrong.

[@ZeppelinLuke]

Nice video

[@plantmanstudios]

Excellent

[@DespairRepair]

Thanks for watching!

[@joedarden2276]

Outstanding

[@DespairRepair]

Thanks for watching!

[@sfisozikalala1539]

Thanks alot ❤️

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@richieram1520]

Thank you

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@billrowan1957]

Im pretty low coolant and leaking coolant is the exact same thing...

[@carstenpedersen5541]

Quote: "The best way to drive with a leaking heater core is to turn of the heating completely". WRONG. There is a constant flow of coolant throug the heater core regardless of the position of heat adjustment.

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! What about the heater cor valve 🙂

[@carstenpedersen5541]

@@DespairRepair Heater core valves is a thing in much older cars. In modern cars heating and distribution is all done by the different blenddoors.

[@DespairRepair]

@@carstenpedersen5541 do you mean actuators?

[@carstenpedersen5541]

@@DespairRepair The actuaters actuate the blenddoors which controls the airflow.

[@DespairRepair]

@@carstenpedersen5541 You're right, I get what you mean now. But I think that there are still a lot of cars out there that have a heater core valve and closing it via the climate controls might help in case of leaking. My Skoda has it and its only 18 years old 🙂 🙂🙂. Thanks for sharing and hope you like our videos.

[@sandrudaniel19]

My air vents blow only very hot air. Even when are turned off very hot air comes in. I see a small leak on passenger rug. Like a full spoon of antigel. Blocked the hose that goes into heater core from under the hood and now i have only cold air from outside. To change heater core costs like 300 euros cause needs to get all board off including wheel, airbags etc. Is too expensive to get to that heater core

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! Yes, I understand you completely. The heater core problem is one of the worst mainly because on most cars you have to dismantle have of the front interior and dash to get to it. Returning it all afterward and making it all work is yet another story. All that I can say is, if you can, change it while it's still warm weather. If it stays like that during the winter the car will be literally undriveable for most of the time. Despite the cost and if possible make the repair. It's just the way it is. If you can do the repair yourself you will save some serious money but prepare a ton of time and patience 🙂

[@gerrys6265]

Thanks

[@DespairRepair]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@nayemhossain4283]

very good explain

[@DespairRepair]

Thank you for the kind words and for watching!

[@larryspiller6633]

Sure wished this video didn't re enforce what I believe my problem to be.

[@smcewen7]

I still have heat but I smell antifreeze for a bit when I turn the heat on

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! You may have a small leak somewhere.

[@ladonna1902]

I'm afraid this is what's wrong with my truck. I have 2005 Jeep Liberty. I have a wet passenger side floor, foggy windshield, and a coolant smell when the heat is turned on.

[@indiandave1642]

10?? WHERES THE OTHER NINE!

[@billrowan1957]

Oily not greasy, just saying.

[@DespairRepair]

Thanks for watching and for sharing!

[@solidhatch]

Another heater problem is when some idiot pour sealant into the coolant system.

[@LisaPeterson227]

I'm dealing with that with a car I bought in may.

[@noahdixon2567]

Man U said the same shit In different ways

[@DespairRepair]

Thanks for watching anyway!😀

[@jovanialvarez9310]

Did you even pay attention? There was so much detail how did you miss all that

[@TheRazvancristian]

Hy.i got an mercedes benz a class a170,from 2005.....last year on december my car heating works great..i was on christmas in holliday in another country,when i comeback the heating dont work like before...and after couple of days just start working,no more warn air gived...in dashboard showed me to add more coolant..i put more but heating still dont come...someone said to i reflush the sistem and refill with coolant and that will be fixed and heating will run..i dont know big thing about mechanics..but what you think can be?before used to work perfectly the heating,in the morning at 5 oclock,when was -2 grace outside,in 3-4 minute was warm in the car..all stop after i comeback from holliday....please help me if you know an advice

[@DespairRepair]

Hi and thanks for watching! To be honest it could be many things. Flushing is a good idea and can't hurt to do it even if doesn't fix the problem. It could be a clog in the heater core, a punctured heater core a thermostat problem, or else. Are there any variations in the engine temperature, is the coolant level ok all the time? Did you check for leaks (namely in the front footwells under the floormats)?

[@samarespinoza1192]

If the carpet is wet on passenger side is the heater core still considered as clogged? Am i able to unclog it? Also another thing i noticed even after changing my whole cooling system except heater core which my heater does not work …. my truck still over heats i live in vegas

[@DespairRepair]

Hi, and thanks for watching! Regarding the carpet, if it's wet then you probably have a leak. A clog will usually cause overheating or excessive pressure in the system. There are ways of unclogging the heater core like flushing it but from personal experience, if you have the possibility, buy a new one. Hope this helps.