Winter Care while in Broomfield, CO: Why Won’t My Car Warm Up

subaru auto mechanic

Winter has come, isn’t it? And the worst feeling? It’s when your car simply won’t warm up on a winter’s morning. It could be a big hassle especially when you are preparing to go to work. You can check the Subaru mechanic near me for emergency car repairs.

How does the heating work?

Heating in the car is supplied by hot coolant that circulates through the engine. A small amount of coolant is diverted into a hose that eventually reaches a heat exchanger or heater core. Cold air from the outside or recirculated air from inside is directed through that heater core until it becomes warm and blasts through your vents, making the cabin nice and toasty. If your heater is not working, there’s a load of things that could be causing the problem. It might be because of one of the following:

  • Low Coolant Level

If your car’s cooling system is not completely filled then this would be the culprit to no heating although a weak or leaky radiator can often be the issue. Check your coolant levels per your manufacturer’s guide to see if your car’s radiator is full. 

  • Air Pockets

Air pockets are another common culprit in the heater core or hose that can interfere with the flow of coolant. You can check if the coolant is circulating through the heater core by feeling both heater hoses. The inlet and outlet return hoses should feel hot when the engine is at normal operating temperature and the heater is on. If you are a new driver and not quite familiar with the terms mentioned, you can contact a Subaru mechanic near me and they will definitely help you.

  • Open Thermostat

Another problem can be the thermostat or one that’s too cold for the system. Most modern cars need a thermostat that is 87-90 degree celsius and it’s quite straightforward to check if the thermostat is open. Start a cold engine and feel the upper radiator hose. You should not be able to feel any warm coolant moving inside the hose until the engine starts to get warm.

  • Blocked Heater Core

When debris fills up in the oolong system, it can plug the heater core and block the flow of coolant. The only fix is to replace the heater core itself. But it can be avoided by flushing and refilling the cooling systems with a mixture of water and antifreeze. If you are unsure of what type of water, you can go to a Subaru auto mechanic.

  • Weak Water Pump

A weak water pump can also cause the problem. If your heating isn’t working this could definitely be a possibility. A pump with corroded impeller blades or one that doesn’t turn fast enough because of a slipping drive belt will certainly leave you in the cold.

  • Faulty Heater Control Valve

On modern vehicles, vacuum-operated heater-control valves are normally open, unless a vacuum is applied. This allows coolant to circulate through the heater core, even when the heater isn’t being used. A Subaru auto mechanic can check this problem with your car and can tell you if it needs replacement or repair.