If your car heater packs it in this winter, you'll have to entomb yourself in extra clothing and blankets to keep even partially warm.
Then you'll have to hope your chattering teeth don't dislodge your dental fillings.
You're far better off to avoid car-heater problems in the first place, says Car Care Canada. Your best precaution is to recognize the symptoms that could signify pending car-heater trouble:
- Do you hear a chirping or screeching sound when you turn on your car heater? This noise suggests a worn fan-motor bearing. Motor failure will quickly follow.
- Is your dashboard heater-control lever unusually stiff? This stiffness could be a sign of a sticky or inoperative heater-control valve.
- Does moisture accumulate inside your car, even with the defroster running? If so, your car's heater core - a miniature radiator - may be leaking.
- Does your heating system operate inefficiently?
Heater and defroster duct hoses carry fresh air into the system and warmed air to locations beyond the heater core. If these duct hoses leak, your heater won't efficiently warm your car or defrost your windows.
- Does your heater blow only cold air? A leaking heater hose (which carries your system's antifreeze) could be the culprit, and this problem could strand you at the side of the road.
A properly functioning car heater will keep you comfortable and your windows clear, both keys to safe driving.
So, be alert to potential heating problems, and get them fixed before they leave you shivering in the cold.
