Heater Core Coolant Leak Overheating

GMC
Avatar
DENESSAULIBARRI
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Before I replaced my water pump, my car was having problems with the windshield fogging up and have a real strong smell of anti-freeze.......but it only did it sometimes. I didnt think that it would be a big problem..........Is it possible that a heater cord could have made my car overheat or blow a head gasket or even crack the engine?!?! This overheating just happened last night, but the heater core has been giving me problems since I bought it.
Feb 21, 2006 at 10:31 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
2CARPRO BOB
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 45 POSTS
With the heater core leaking coolant it can cause the level of the coolant in the engine to get dangerously low. Once this occurs the engine will overheat. They only way to tell if the engine has been damaged, is by doing a compressions check or a leak down test.
Feb 22, 2006 at 12:36 PM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Suggested Repair

A leaking heater core can drop engine coolant low enough to cause overheating. Repair the heater core leak, restore the coolant level, and perform a compression check or leak-down test to determine whether the engine was damaged.

Conversation Summary

The owner reported intermittent windshield fogging and a strong antifreeze smell before replacing the water pump, followed by overheating. They asked whether a faulty heater core could cause overheating, a blown head gasket, or a cracked engine. The expert explained that a leaking heater core can lower coolant to a dangerous level and overheat the engine, and that a compression check or leak-down test is needed to assess engine damage.

Related Repair Questions

Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle