It’s that awkward time of year when the days are still warm, but the nights are getting colder. As much as we hate to admit it, summer is winding down, and colder weather is on the way.
Now is the perfect time to make sure your car’s heater is ready for the winter months. If your heater isn’t working properly, there’s no need to buy a new car. A dependable local mechanic can diagnose the problem and get your vehicle back in working order at an affordable price.
At Redman’s Automotive, we handle all types of auto repair, from major issues to routine maintenance. Here are a few signs that your car heater may need attention.
The Heater Blows Cold Air
This one is a dead giveaway. Your car’s heater relies on the heater core to transfer heat into the cabin and keep you warm.
A damaged or punctured heater core can prevent that heat from reaching the cabin. Heater cores can also become clogged with rust or debris. Depending on the condition, a damaged heater core may be repairable, but replacement may be necessary.
The Windshield and Windows Fog Up
If your car’s windows begin fogging up after the cabin warms up, it could be another sign of a problem with the heater core.
A faulty heater core can allow coolant to leak into the cabin, creating moisture that causes the windows to fog. Reduced visibility can be extremely dangerous, especially in winter driving conditions. It’s best to have the issue diagnosed before snow and ice arrive.
You Can Smell Coolant
Coolant is a specially formulated fluid that flows through your engine to help regulate its temperature. It can have a sweet or somewhat chemical odor.
If you notice an unusual smell coming through your vents, you could have a coolant leak. Coolant exposure can also cause health concerns, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and eye irritation. If you notice a strong coolant smell inside your vehicle, have the problem inspected as soon as possible.
A leaking radiator or cooling-system component can prevent coolant from reaching the heater. Even more importantly, a significant coolant leak can lead to serious engine damage.
Your Car Overheats
You want your car to be warm—not your engine!
If your engine is overheating, your dashboard may alert you with a temperature warning light. This is usually represented by a thermometer over wavy lines.
A blocked radiator, cooling-system problem, or other issue can cause the engine to overheat. Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can result in major engine damage or leave you stranded on the side of the road.
That’s something you especially want to avoid when temperatures drop and winter weather arrives.
The Best Manchester Mechanic: Redman’s Automotive
Don’t wait until the first freezing morning to discover that your car heater isn’t working. Bring your vehicle to Redman’s Automotive, a mechanic located in Manchester, NH, for routine maintenance, heater service, and all your auto repair needs.
Whether your heater needs a tune-up, a replacement part, or a more extensive repair, our team can help get your vehicle back in working order so you can stay warm and safe all winter.
Call Redman’s Automotive at (603) 626-1400 to schedule a service or auto repair appointment.