When the average person thinks of vehicle maintenance, what may come to mind are the typical culprits: oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, perhaps even the occasional transmission flush. But there is one vital system that’s quite often forgotten until it breaks, and that’s your car’s heating system.
A lot of drivers think the heating system is only for keeping warm in the winter, but it actually serves a much more important purpose in your car — and your personal safety. So, why is this simple fact an important part of responsible vehicle ownership, rather than just convenience?
If you’re like most of us in North America, you use the heating system in your vehicle to avoid freezing in the winter, but its job is not only to keep you and your passengers warm. Your car’s heater is actually part of the engine cooling system. And it harnesses heat from the engine’s coolant to blow warm air into the cabin. In other words, it helps regulate the temperature of your engine while also providing heat for your vehicle’s cabin.
If you’re not getting good heat, however, it could be a sign that something has gone wrong with the cooling system — a leak or a failed water pump or thermostat, for example, or a clogged heater core. Failure to address these problems can eventually contribute to engine overheating that may inflict costly and serious damage, such as a blown head gasket or even a cracked engine block.
Having a working heating system is important for ensuring that your windshield and windows are free from condensation and frost. When your front defroster fails you, your visibility plummets, drastically increasing the risk for you and others. When it comes to your defroster, warm air is its friend because it’s being asked to perform a pretty serious function: the removal of all that moisture from the inside of your windows, and if it’s not doing its job effectively, your trips through the wintry landscape are going to be not only uncomfortable, but dangerous.
Keeping an eye on when your heating system needs attention can prevent you from facing bigger issues in the long run. Some warning signs include:
If you see any of these indications, it is best to get your car checked by a professional mechanic at your earliest.
America 1st Automotive can perform required and regular maintenance on your vehicle’s heating system, including:
You should listen for loud or unusual noises, such as a noisy blower motor. Rattling or knocking noises from the blower motor could be a sign of wear.
Don’t neglect your heater system or you might end up with expensive repairs or dangerous driving. But with a little bit of attention and some regular checks, you can prevent most problems and keep your ride safe, efficient and comfortable.
So the next time you are dressing up to get warm and drive on a cold day, just remember, your car’s heater is more than just a comfort feature—she’s a life saver. Take care of it, as it deserves, and it will keep you warm and safe whatever the weather.
America 1st Automotive specialists can diagnose your heating system’s problems to keep you warm on those long winter trips. Don’t wait for the winter cold to kick in—book your heating system inspection and maintenance today!
Did you know that your vehicle can defrost your windshield? This is part of Virginia’s State Vehicle Inspection. If it can’t defrost properly, your vehicle may fail the inspection.