Symptoms of a Heater Core That Is In Disrepair
A myriad of reasons will cause all motorists to require car repairs. Thus, it is not surprising to find a good number of vehicle owners paying close attention to their transmission system, gearbox, wheels and so on. However, have you ever had considered the malfunction of your heater core? The heater core is a component in your vehicle that has the primary function to ensure that heated coolant is circulated through your vehicle's cabin. The heater core is located beneath your dashboard and is particularly essential during the colder months.
Nonetheless, a majority of people will only be concerned about this auto part when it is in decline and they need some warmth during the cold months. The trick to avoiding discomfort once winter rolls around is by identifying the signs of a potential problem early and having it repaired in good time. Read on for three symptoms of a heater core that is in disrepair.
Fog inside your vehicle
One of the typical signs of a malfunctioning heater core is when the interior of your car is cooler than normal. When the interiors are cold, the fog will automatically form on the inside of your windscreen. The fog is indicative of the heater core malfunctioning, which means the heated coolant is not being circulated around the interior but instead is leaking and, in turn, leaving through your vehicle's vents. Hence, instead of dry heat circulating through the interior of the vehicle, it will be steam forming on the windscreen.
A sickly sweet odour in your vehicle
You probably know that if your vehicle is leaking transition fluid, then you will notice a distinctive syrupy smell in your car. The same goes for a malfunctioned heater core. When your heater core ruptures, the coolant will start to leak from it. In some cases, the leak may be minor, so you could be thinking that the heater core is functioning. However, it is only a matter of time before all the coolant depletes, which will cause the heater core to malfunction. If you notice a syrupy or sickly sweet smell in your car, it is best to visit a mechanic for car repairs immediately.
A puddle on the floorboard
Another telltale sign of leaking coolant from your heater core is a visible puddle on your floorboard. While some coolant leaks from the heater core will manifest at the exterior, there are some cases when the coolant collects at the bottom of the interior of your car. If the heater core was cold when the leak started, then you will not notice fog inside your car. Instead, inspect the floorboard for an unusual puddle and visit an auto repair shop as soon as possible