2005 Dodge Caravan Heater Problems

SIGN BOY

MEMBER
2005 DODGE CARAVAN
3.8L
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
102,000 MILES

Hello,

I've seen a similar question posted elsewhere, but mine is slightly different, and I figured I would ask it. My 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan has stopped blowing out hot air when we use the heater. I initially checked and saw that the coolant in the reservoir was low, almost empty. I refilled the reservoir, and changed the thermostat (a buddy of mine thought that might be the problem, and since the part was only $10, I thought it might be worthwhile to just change it.)

However, after running the car with the heater turned on and letting it run, I noticed that no coolant was leaving the reservoir. I had some leftover coolant, so started adding it directly to the radiator while the car was running. I didn't have enough to top off the reservoir.

So, after letting the engine run for about 20 minutes, there was still no heat coming out of the vents in the car. The vent on the driver's side seemed to be slightly warmer than the center and passenger vents - but I never checked how the rear vents were. I did check the hose running from the radiator to the manifold, and it was hot, but the hoses running to the heater core were both cold.

I realize this is a lot of information, I hope I haven't muddied the waters in any way. I appreciate any help you're able to offer.

3 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,870 POSTS

The upper radiator hose should be too hot to hold onto for very long. If it is, feel the heater hoses going to the firewall. If they are cool, suspect a plugged heater core. They can usually be cleared by running water through them from a garden hose. Remove the hoses from the engine rather than from the heater core. They're usually easier to get to on the engine, and you won't risk breaking the solder joint on one of the tubes when you twist the hoses.