Why is the heat in my Subaru not working?
If you find yourself shivering in your Subaru during the colder months, it can be frustrating to discover that the heat isn't working. Understanding the potential causes can help you diagnose the issue and get back to enjoying a warm and comfortable ride. In this article, we will explore the common reasons why your Subaru's heating system may be malfunctioning and what steps you can take to resolve the problem.
Common Causes of Heating Issues in Subarus
There are several reasons why the heating system in your Subaru may not be functioning properly. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Low Coolant Levels: The heating system relies on coolant to transfer heat. If the coolant level is low due to leaks or insufficient filling, the heater may not work effectively.
- Thermostat Problems: A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the engine from reaching the optimal temperature, which in turn affects the heating system's performance.
- Heater Core Issues: The heater core acts as a small radiator that heats the air blown into the cabin. If it becomes clogged or leaks, it can lead to inadequate heating.
- Faulty Blower Motor: If the blower motor is not functioning, the warm air generated by the heater core will not be circulated into the cabin.
- Blocked Air Vents: Sometimes, debris or obstructions can block the air vents, preventing warm air from entering the vehicle.
Troubleshooting Steps
If you're experiencing heating issues in your Subaru, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:
- Check Coolant Levels: Inspect the coolant reservoir and ensure that it is filled to the appropriate level. If it's low, top it off and check for leaks.
- Inspect the Thermostat: If your engine is running cold, consider having the thermostat tested or replaced.
- Examine the Heater Core: Look for signs of leaks or coolant odor inside the cabin, which may indicate a problem with the heater core.
- Test the Blower Motor: Ensure that the blower motor is operational by adjusting the fan settings. If there is no response, the motor may need to be replaced.
- Clear Air Vents: Check for any obstructions in the air vents and remove any debris that may be blocking airflow.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you've gone through these troubleshooting steps and your Subaru's heating system is still not working, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic. They can perform a thorough diagnostic to identify the underlying issue and recommend the necessary repairs. At Kevin's Autos, we have years of experience in car maintenance and repair, and we're here to help you get your vehicle back to optimal performance.
Don't let a malfunctioning heating system ruin your winter driving experience. Stay warm and safe on the road!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get air out of a Subaru cooling system?
Rev the engine between 2500 to 4000 rpm off and on for 5 minutes, this should allow the water pump to force air out of the system. Note that warm air should be coming out of the heater vents, if not the heater must have air trapped in it, STOP the engine and allow to cool down then go back to step 2, above.
Why is cold air coming out when the heater is on?
The heat exchanger uses coils to transfer heat from the ignited gas to the air. When cold air blows from a furnace the heat exchanger, furnace burner, or exhaust are likely the cause. This may be due to dirty components, broken parts, or the many safety mechanisms within the gas system.
What causes heat to stop working in car?
When a broken or malfunctioning thermostat is the single most frequent cause of automobile heating systems suddenly failing to heat properly. A thermostat may become stuck closed or open, or develop other problems causing the heating and cooling system to stop producing.
Why is my car blowing out cold air when heat is on?
Low Coolant Level
If there isn't enough coolant in your system, the heater core will blow cold air into your car. Solution: If you confirm that a low coolant level is the source of your problem, you simply need to top off your coolant. You may want to check for leaks as well if you just recently refilled your coolant.
Is it expensive to fix a car heater?
Fixing the issue yourself won't set you back more than a few hundred dollars at worst, but if you need to take your car to a mechanic, you can expect to pay for parts and labor up to $1,000, perhaps more, depending on the year, make, and model of your car.
Why is my Subaru not blowing hot air?
Low Coolant Level
The heater system in your Subaru uses the same coolant that circulates through your engine. If the coolant level is low, it can affect the heater's ability to produce warm air. Low coolant levels might also indicate a leak in the system, which needs immediate attention to prevent engine overheating.
Why is there no heat coming out of my car vents?
Low coolant: Whether caused by a leak or water evaporation, low coolant is the most common source of poor heater output. Thermostat: A stuck-open thermostat prevents the engine (and coolant) from heating up. Heater core: A clogged heater core restricts coolant flow, giving up little or no heat.
Why did my car suddenly stop blowing hot air?
If the heater isn't blowing hot air at you when you turn the system on, the blower fan might have a problem. Either it's not getting electrical power or, more likely, the motor itself has simply burned out. A blower motor in an older vehicle is likely to burn out over time, and may need replacement.
Why is my car not blowing hot air on heat?
If your heater isn't blowing hot air, it's likely your vehicle is experiencing one or more of the following problems: The heater core is damaged. The coolant is contaminated. The blower fan is malfunctioning.
Why is hot air not 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.
