Heater not working?

CANADAKAT

MEMBER
1 POST
1998 DODGE CARAVAN

Heater problem
1998 Dodge Caravan 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 252k miles

Hi,
I have a '98 Caravan with just over 252k on it and my heater is acting up. The blower works fine - no 'bad' noises and seems to be right speed(s), but I usually (although not always) only get heat when the car is moving. No heat (most of the time) when idling - blows cold air.
Can someone give me a few 'first things to check'? I would appreciate it.
Thanks.

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Monday, November 2nd, 2020 AT 8:38 AM (Merged)

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

I'll replace the thermostat that don't work check the heater control valve and heater core.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Monday, November 2nd, 2020 AT 8:38 AM (Merged)

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi:
Also, make sure the coolant level is full. Low coolant can cause the same problem. If it's full, as rasmataz said, you'll most likely need a thermostat is the engine isn't operating at a normal operating temp which is around 200 degrees.

Joe

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Monday, November 2nd, 2020 AT 8:38 AM (Merged)

MORAN816

MEMBER
1 POST
1998 DODGE CARAVAN

I got in my van & drove about 10 miles (city) when I got to my destination I sat in the car for 5 minutes and the heat stopped and starting blowing cold air. Then driving home the van heated up for about 5 minutes then started blowing cold air again. About a month ago I noticed when I drove the car we had heat but when the car was parked but still on there was no heat just blowing cold air. Please help 8)

Thank you

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Monday, November 2nd, 2020 AT 8:38 AM (Merged)

BHUGG

MECHANIC
157 POSTS

Check the raidiator coolant level.
Also the thermostat may need to be changed.

We are volunteers and thrive on your feedback.
Vote for us if we are helpful.