Heater only puts out heat when car is accelerating

Tiny
CLW1111
  • MEMBER
  • 2015 CHEVROLET CRUZE
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 76,000 MILES
Only have heat when car is accelerating at 45+MPH's (does not if coasting).
Gauge shows that heat is midrange on control panel

Thermostat? Heat Core? Sensors? Need to be replaced?
Friday, October 30th, 2020 AT 1:42 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
More then likely you have a restriction in the heater core or are low on coolant. When you accelerate you are pushing more coolant through the system.

If it were me, I would pressure test the cooling system after you make sure it is full. Make sure there are not leaks and then I would replace the heater core.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-heater-not-working

Normally we would need to do a little more testing before we do this just to confirm it because it is a pretty large job. However, it is pretty clear that would be the issue and on your vehicle it is not difficult. I attached the procedure.

If you would like to confirm it, use a laser temp gauge on the heater hoses going into the heater core. Clearly they should be about the same. If not then you have a restriction in the heater core.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, October 30th, 2020 AT 1:58 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links