Heater never gets warm?

1999 PLYMOUTH BREEZE
97,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
NICKHEAD551
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I can drive twenty miles and no heat and temperature gauge on dash never moves. I had 2 mechanics tell me nothing was wrong thermostat. The third time I told mechanic to replace it anyway. Did not work. During the summer, everything is okay.
Feb 13, 2025 at 6:06 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It sounds like you may have two problems, first I would put a scanner on it to see what the engine temperature is, which when hot, it should be about 198 degrees. If not replace the sensor, here is the location which should fix the gauge problem, next with the heater issue when the engine is hot can you grasp the heater hoses to see if they are hot as well? Please go over this video which can help:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNRb6pSwYuU

You could have air stuck in the core as well or the core is clogged. I would remove the heater hoses and then use a garden hose to flush the core out, this works really well. When you work the temperature controls can you hear the blend door moving inside the HVAC plenum? Please check out the images below and let us know how it goes.

Feb 14, 2025 at 11:15 AM
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 Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.