Why is the heat not working in my Impala?

If the heat in your Chevrolet Impala isn't working, there could be a few potential issues. The most common causes include a problem with the coolant system, a faulty heater core, or an issue with the heating controls. Let's dive into the details to help you troubleshoot and fix the problem.

Checking the Coolant System

One of the first things to check is the coolant system. The Impala's heating system relies on the engine's coolant to generate heat. If there's a problem with the coolant, such as a leak or low fluid level, it can prevent the heat from working properly. Check the coolant level in the overflow tank and top it up if necessary. Also, inspect the hoses and connections for any signs of leaks or damage.

Inspecting the Heater Core

The heater core is a small radiator-like component that transfers heat from the engine's coolant into the cabin. If the heater core is clogged or damaged, it won't be able to effectively heat the air that's blown into the cabin. Symptoms of a bad heater core include poor heat output, coolant leaks, and a musty odor from the vents. In this case, the heater core may need to be flushed or replaced.

Troubleshooting the Heating Controls

Another potential issue could be with the heating controls themselves. The Impala's heating system is controlled by a series of switches, sensors, and actuators. If any of these components are malfunctioning, it can prevent the heat from working properly. Check the fuses, wiring, and connections related to the heating system to ensure they're all in good working order. You may also need to have the heating controls diagnosed by a professional.

Seeking Professional Help

If you've checked the coolant system, heater core, and heating controls and the problem persists, it's best to have your Impala inspected by a qualified automotive technician. They'll be able to use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue and recommend the appropriate repair. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're unable to resolve the problem on your own.

Why is my car blowing out cold air when the heat is on?

Your car is likely blowing cold air when the heat is on because of a low coolant level, a faulty thermostat, a clogged or broken heater core, or an airlock in the cooling system. Other possible causes include a bad blower motor, a clogged cabin air filter, or malfunctioning heating controls. To diagnose the problem, first check the coolant level and listen for the engine to reach its normal operating temperature. 
You can watch this video to learn about the symptoms of a clogged or leaky heater core: 49sTop 5 Auto RepairsYouTube · Sep 14, 2023
Common causes

• Low coolant level: Coolant transfers heat from the engine to the heater core. If the level is too low, there isn't enough heat to warm the air. This is often caused by a leak in a hose, the radiator, or the water pump. 
• Faulty thermostat: The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant. If it's stuck closed, coolant can't circulate to the heater core to provide heat. 
• Clogged or damaged heater core: The heater core is a small radiator that heats the air. Over time, it can become clogged with debris or rust, preventing hot coolant from flowing through it properly. 
• Airlock in the cooling system: Air bubbles can get trapped in the cooling system, blocking the flow of coolant to the heater core. This can be fixed by bleeding the air from the system. 
• Malfunctioning heating controls: The cables or electronic components that control the blend door (which directs air over the heater core) or the temperature can break or become stuck. 

What to check and do

1. Check engine temperature: When the engine has been running for a while, check if the temperature gauge is in the normal range. If it's still on "cold," the thermostat is a likely culprit. 
2. Check coolant level: Look at the coolant reservoir. If the level is low, top it off with the correct mixture of coolant and water. Check for any signs of a leak, such as puddles under the car. 
3. Check for blockages: If coolant levels are normal, a blockage is likely. You can try a cooling system flush, or a mechanic can check for blockages in the heater core itself. 
4. Inspect heating controls: Check the vents and controls for any signs of damage or sticking. You may need to have them repaired or replaced. 

This video explains the steps to troubleshoot a car heater blowing cold air: 1:06Dannys DIY GarageYouTube · Oct 22, 2025

Why is the heat not working in my Chevy Impala?

If your Impala's heat isn't working, common causes include low coolant, a clogged heater core, or a faulty blend door actuator. You can troubleshoot by first checking the coolant level and heater hoses. If those are hot, listen for clicking or other noises from the dashboard that could point to the blend door actuator. Other issues could be a bad thermostat, blower motor, or resistor.
 
Troubleshooting steps 
This video demonstrates how to check for heater issues and coolant leaks in a Chevrolet Impala: 59sThe mech a nicYouTube · Feb 23, 2022

• Check coolant level and heater hoses: With the engine cool, check the coolant level in the reservoir. Once the engine is warm, carefully feel the two heater hoses going through the firewall. Both hoses should be hot to the touch if the water pump is working correctly. 
• Inspect the heater core: If the hoses aren't both hot, the heater core is likely clogged and may need to be flushed or replaced. 
• Listen for the blend door actuator: With the engine running, turn the temperature control from hot to cold and listen near the passenger side of the dashboard for clicking or grinding sounds. This indicates a faulty blend door actuator, which directs the airflow. 
• Check the blower motor and resistor: If there is no air blowing at all, the issue could be a blown fuse, a bad blower motor, or a failed blower motor resistor. Check the fuses and relays first. 

Potential solutions
This video shows how to replace the blend door actuator in a Chevrolet Impala: 1mCody the Car GuyYouTube · Nov 20, 2017

• Low coolant: Top off the coolant and check for leaks. If the level is low again, there's a leak that needs to be fixed. 
• Clogged heater core: Flush the heater core to remove any debris. If flushing doesn't work, it will need to be replaced. 
• Blend door actuator: If you hear clicking, replace the blend door actuator, which can often be a DIY job. 
• Thermostat: If the engine isn't reaching its proper operating temperature, the thermostat may be stuck open. Replacing the thermostat will ensure proper coolant circulation. 
• Blower motor or resistor: If the fan isn't working, you can test the blower motor and resistor. If either is faulty, they will need to be replaced. 

Why is my air working but not my heat in my car?

Low Coolant Levels
The heating system in your car relies on the hot coolant that circulates through the engine. If you notice your car heat not blowing hot air, low coolant levels might be the culprit. If your coolant levels are low, there might not be enough to heat up and warm your car.

What would cause my heat not to kick on?

Common reasons a heater won't turn on include a tripped circuit breaker, a thermostat set incorrectly or with dead batteries, or a dirty air filter that causes the system to overheat and shut down. Other issues can be a lack of fuel for gas furnaces, a pilot light that is out, or a failed component like the blower motor or flame sensor. 
Power and thermostat issues

• Tripped circuit breaker: Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker and reset it. If it trips again, there may be a more serious electrical problem. 
• Thermostat settings: Make sure the thermostat is set to "Heat" and the temperature is turned up higher than the current room temperature. 
• Dead batteries: If your thermostat is battery-powered, replace the batteries. 
• Power switch: Some heaters have an emergency shutoff switch that looks like a light switch. Make sure it is in the "on" position. 

Airflow and safety issues

• Clogged air filter: A dirty filter can restrict airflow, causing the system to overheat and shut down for safety. Replace the filter if it's dirty. 
• Blocked vents: Ensure that vents and registers are not blocked by furniture or other objects. 
• Safety switches: Modern furnaces have safety switches, like a limit switch, that can shut off the system if it overheats. This can be a sign of an underlying issue that needs a professional to diagnose. 

Fuel and ignition problems

• No fuel: For gas or oil furnaces, check that the gas valve is open and that you have an adequate fuel supply. 
• Pilot light: If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, check if it has gone out. If it has, follow the manufacturer's instructions to relight it, but never attempt to relight it if you can smell gas. 
• Electronic ignition: The electronic igniter or flame sensor can fail. A dirty or bad flame sensor can prevent the burners from igniting. 

Component failure

• Blower motor: The blower motor is responsible for pushing warm air into your home. If it fails, the heat will not be circulated. 
• Other components: There could be a problem with the control board, a capacitor, or the inducer motor. 

If you have tried the basic troubleshooting steps and your heat still won't come on, it's best to call a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem.