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Why is my car blowing air but not hot?

If your car is blowing air but not hot, it could be due to a few common issues with your vehicle's heating system. The most likely causes are a problem with the thermostat, a faulty heater core, or low coolant levels. Let's explore these potential problems in more detail.


Thermostat Issues


The thermostat is a crucial component in your car's cooling system. It regulates the flow of coolant, which in turn controls the temperature of the air being blown into the cabin. If the thermostat is stuck open, it will prevent the engine from reaching the optimal operating temperature, resulting in cool air being blown into the cabin. This is one of the most common reasons for a car blowing air but not hot.


Heater Core Problems


The heater core is responsible for heating the air that is blown into the cabin. If the heater core is clogged or damaged, it will restrict the flow of hot coolant, preventing the air from being heated effectively. A faulty heater core can cause the air to blow but remain cool.


Low Coolant Levels


Insufficient coolant in the system can also lead to the car blowing air but not hot. The coolant is responsible for absorbing heat from the engine and transferring it to the heater core. If the coolant level is low, there may not be enough heat being transferred to the cabin air.


Troubleshooting Steps



  • Check the thermostat by monitoring the temperature of the radiator hoses. If the upper hose is not getting hot, the thermostat may be stuck open.

  • Inspect the heater core for any signs of blockage or damage, such as leaks or corrosion.

  • Check the coolant level and top it up if necessary. Also, look for any signs of coolant leaks in the system.


If you've checked these common issues and the problem persists, it's best to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the issue to ensure your car's heating system is functioning correctly.

Why is my car blowing but no heat?


  • The most common reason for heater not working is low coolant.
  • The second likely reason is faulty controls that control the temperature blend.
  • If the cooling system has not been properly maintained, or excess stop leak has been used, the heater core may be plugged.
  • A faulty thermostat will set the check engine light.



Why does my blower work on cool but not heat?


Check Furnace Thermostat Settings
Incorrect thermostat settings can be the cause behind no heat coming out of the vents, even with the furnace blower turned on. Check the thermostat to ensure the setting is in HEAT instead of COOL. It is a common mistake that happens.



Why is my heater blowing air but not hot?


Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: A Simple Fix
A clogged filter is one of the most common reasons for a furnace running but no heat being produced.



How to know if a thermostat is bad?


A bad thermostat can be detected when your AC or furnace is not turning on, your HVAC systems are not turning off, the thermostat not responding, your HVAC system is short-cycling, the room temperature not matching the temperature displayed on the thermostat, and the programmed setting resetting themselves.



Why would my car be blowing cold air instead of hot?


When the thermostat can't signal that the engine is warm, the coolant won't be sent over to provide heat to the heater core and the air will blow cold. Solution: You need to install a new thermostat to get your heater working again. It's a relatively quick and easy fix.



How to fix car heater blowing cold air?


To fix this, simply open or take out the heater box and polish the fins on the heater core. 5. There is a Coolant Leak: Another common issue might be a water leak. Since there are lots of places where water leaks may show up, be sure to check the radiator, water pump, and hoses thoroughly for any leaking.



How much does a blower motor cost?


HVAC Blower Motor Size

Blower Motor SizeAverage Cost
1/3 horsepower$100–$800
1/2 horsepower$120–$1,000
3/4 horsepower$175–$1,500
1 horsepower$250–$2,000



Why is my AC running but not getting hot?


If your HVAC unit isn't heating, start by checking the thermostat settings, cleaning or replacing any dirty air filters, and ensuring that refrigerant levels are sufficient. These are common issues that can lead to heating failures.



Why is there no heat coming out of my vents?


While furnaces can stop operating for complicated reasons, home owners should check a few usual suspects first behind a lack of hot blowing air: Electrical problems causing a loss of power. Blocked air vents and ducts restricting airflow. Improperly configured thermostat settings.



Why is my heat not kicking on in my car?


If your car's heat is blowing cold air, it could be due to low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, air trapped in the cooling system, or a faulty heater core. Addressing these issues promptly can restore warm air and keep your car comfortable in colder weather.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.