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Symptoms of a Vehicle Heating System Problem

There are a few truths about Calgary, including its cold winters and our love for cars. But what happens when these two are at odds? If the heating system in your vehicle suddenly stops working in the middle of winter, it can become very frustrating and cold. At Speedy Apollo Auto Services, our expert technicians can diagnose any heating system problem and fix the issue before it causes you a headache.

In general terms, a heating system works when the vehicle receives heat from the engine’s coolant system. Once the engine reaches its operating temperature — controlled by the thermostat — it heats up the coolant and water mixture, passes it through hoses and valves and into the heating core, which resembles a miniature radiator. A blower fan then pushes the warm air from the heating core through the cabin filter and into the vehicle.

Why Has the Heating System Stopped Working in my Vehicle?

The radiator in your vehicle plays an important role in both heating and cooling the cabin of your vehicle depending on the season. For instance, while acting as a heat exchanger for the coolant, the radiator will use hot engine coolant to warm the fluids. If this system is not performing properly, a variety of issues can occur outside of just a lack of warmth in your vehicle.

A heater can stop working for a number of reasons, including:

  • A low antifreeze/water level in the radiator due to a leak in the cooling system.
  • A bad thermostat that isn’t allowing the engine to properly warm up.
  • A blower fan that isn’t working properly.
  • Coolant that contains rust particles or becomes contaminated which then blocks the heating core from properly circulating air into the cabin

Because the problem could result from a combination of issues, it’s important to always have a reputable auto service company in Calgary diagnose the problem for you. To avoid problems over the long term, schedule regular appointments to have a mechanic assess your heater and perform necessary radiator repairs in Calgary. For example, a leak could be as simple as a loose hose clamp, or a major problem like a leaking engine cylinder head gasket, which can cause serious damage to the engine and potentially cost several hundred dollars to replace.

Contact Us for Professional Calgary Auto Service & Radiator Repairs

When you visit us at Speedy Apollo Auto Service Centres, we will check the acidity and coolant levels in your vehicle. In doing so, we will be able to pinpoint any issues such as leaks, cracks, corrosion, old hoses, or improper fluid levels. The coolant in your vehicle should be replaced every 2 to 3 years, so be sure to bring your vehicle to us in Calgary for auto service at this time.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment at one of our 2 locations across Calgary including Bowness, Forest Lawn, Midnapore and Westbrook.

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