no heat idling or parked ...............................................................................................................................................................................................
Had just purchased this vehicle the day before from a private owner. The problem did not show up during the test drive of the vehicle. I initially added coolant to the reservoir, it was about 4 inches below the top, and it helped for a few days. Then found evidence of orange dried coolant around the bolts and flange of the water outlet. I realize minor evidence is the edge of more serious actual happenings and so I started checking closely and identified the leak/allowing air into the hoses/block and distorting the true readings. Heat gauge said all was well, I am aware air in the system creates hot spots and impedes coolant flow. Found the housing on the internet for $49.95 through Autopartsdirecttoyou.com, includes shipping. Also found the same part for $90 plus shipping in Hickory, NC and Avondale, AZ.
Hope someone like Dorman or Motormite builds the housing out of metal instead of plastic. Plastic will not last many years in the heat on the engine, especially in the summer time.
So far I've had the thermostat replaced, back flushed the heater coil, bleed coolant system for air locks and adjusted a few of the 'air blend doors'. The heat has gotten better but still the problem persist. All work was performed by ASE Level II Master Technicians.
Returned car to dealership after finding large puddle of anti-freeze under vehicle.
Dealership troubleshot cooling system and found the water pump failed; about 40 daysa after they replaced my thermostat (no heat). I recommend having experienced mechanic or dealership perform this rpair (replacement) because replacing the water pump required dismantling front of engine; belt, motor mount and removal of timing cover. Repair was made over 5 day period due to holidays. I went to pick-up car and dealership lost my key and remote. Dealership made a new key from the VIN and ordered me a new key (fob they called it) remote.
Dealership tested all heater controls, i.e. blend door activation, fresh air etc then determined problem to be the thermostat. Replaced thermostat and anti-freeze (cost me $100 deductible) rest covered under extended warranty. Fixed complaint
- Ron R.,
Warrensburg, MO, US
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Car now in 3 times for the same problem... Heat starts to go cold, like I turned the a/c on... First in Sebrings, it takes a while to get warm but then once it does, it should stay warm, not my car, it goes warm, but not really hot, then when I stop at a light or idle, goes friggin cold... Now just brought it in for the third time, so far, so good, but it's been three times now and even the Mechanic is stumped... Apparently this time the valve was open??? Last time it was my radiator... First time, the blower didn't work..... It's one thing after another with the heat and with our cold winters, not fun!!!
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no heat idling or parked ...............................................................................................................................................................................................
- Melvin P., Portauxbasques, NL, Canada