heating problem on a 1999 vw jetta?

Question

what are the signs that you have a failed heating core on your car? around how much does it cost to fix? is it an easy job to do? is it still safe to drive? my 1999 jetta 4 cyl. is leaking water from somewhere around the passager's side floor. the mats are soaked with water and the windows are always foged up inside the car. the car has a funny smell i have been told it is a heating problem what sort of problem could this be

does anyone know where the heating core is located on a 1999 jetta V 4 cyl. and anyone know of any step by step directions to replace it.

Answer 1

First you should contact VW to see if there is a recall on your car.

You have a leaking heater core, what you smell is sweet like maple suger is the antifreeze mixture. Eventualy the core will completley fail and your feet could get burned.

This is a high labor job that requires alot of dashboard dissassembly.

Good luck.

Answer 2

that is all the signs of a heater core going bad. I've never done one on a jetta, but if you can reach it, it may not be too difficult to change. you can still drive it but make sure the radiator stays full or you may burn up an engine. Good luck.

Answer 3

well it sounds like you have a bad heater core
first as far as cost i would get out the yellow pages and call around
on drive ability you can bypass the heater core outside in the engine compartment
when you bypass it you will have no heat in the car but it will be drivable
I do recommend fixing it as you may need the heater in the winter

Answer 4

Its the heater core if it is leaking on the passenger floor board. heater core has a hole in it and the antifreeze is running out. get it fixed by a mechanic, kind off major getting to it. Don't drive to much you will run out of antifreeze and ruin your interior and overheat car. The smell is the antifreeze.

Answer 5

try checking up the radiator it might have a leak or a hole there....or try checking the hose...