Q: Heater core

asked by on December 02, 2017

I replaced blendoor actuator and heater control valve but not getting hot air just warm air and it takes 10 to 15 minutes to reach operating temperature. I don't see any leaks on hoses or thermostat, could be clugg heater core or faulty blow motor, i don't think the coolant has been flush, but i wanted more clear direction before replacing coolant.

My car has 140000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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You may have a clogged heater core that may be prohibiting the outer linings of the heater core to get hot. As you know, the heater core is a series of tubes that the coolant runs through that generates the heat from the warm coolant after circulating through the motor. These tubes can occasionally develop a buildup on the inner walls such that when the heater core is "flushed" this buildup on the inner walls of the lines remains and still allows the coolant to flow through the heater core. It is important to note that when the heater core is "flushed" it is possible to get good flow through the heater core while the inside walls of the heater core remain caked with buildup. As a result, the buildup on the inner walls prevents the temperature from rising to its capability due to the insulating effect of this buildup on the inner walls which will prevent the necessary heat transfer to properly heat the inside of the car. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and replace your heater core.

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