What Are the Signs of a Bad Heater Core?
by Shelley MooreThe heater core is a mini-radiator located behind the dashboard. The fan for the heater and defroster blow across this component to bring heat into the vehicle's interior. Replacing the heater core is something car owners dread because parts and labor are expensive, and it is a difficult do-it-yourself project. Signs of a bad heater core are few, but noticeable.
Other Components Working
If the radiator is full and the thermostat works but no heat comes through the vents, that's a sign of a bad heater core.
Antifreeze Odor
An odor of antifreeze coming from the vents when the heater or defroster is on also points to a bad heater core.
Windshield Fogging
Another sign of a bad heater core is windshield fogging when the heater or defroster is on.
Antifreeze Leak
Antifreeze leaking into the passenger side of the car is a sign the heater core has completely failed.
Caution
If the radiator is rapidly leaking coolant into the interior, the vehicle will probably overheat and thus is not safe to drive.
Heater Core Bypass
A mechanic can bypass the heater core by tying off the hoses that connect the core to the coolant system. The vehicle will not have heat inside, but it will still be functional.
Writer Bio
Shelley Moore is a journalist and award-winning short-story writer. She specializes in writing about personal development, health, careers and personal finance. Moore has been published in "Family Circle" magazine and the "Milwaukee Sentinel" newspaper, along with numerous other national and regional magazines, daily and weekly newspapers and corporate publications. She has a Bachelor of Science in psychology.
