Thermostat gauge?

Question

Okay, the thermostat gauge on my car goes up to the center like it is supposed to, but when I turn on the heat, it blows hot 4 a little while; like 3-5 minutes, then just blows air. Can someone tell me exactly what the problem is? Do I just need antifreeze, a new thermostat, or something else?? Please help!!!

Answer 1

You car may have a bad thermal water control valve near the heater core. You didn't tell us the brand and year. Be sure your coolant reserve tank is half full with 50/50 antifreeze mix. It's a milky white plastic can under the hood. Install a new Stant radiator cap when the motor is cold. How old is your antifreeze. 98's and newer take Dex-cool if it's a Ford or a GM product. If your antifreeze has a brown color it most likely needs to be flushed and changed with new Anti -"frizz". Good Luck To You.

Answer 2

Forget the thermostat guage, and look at not just the heater core, but the condition of the coolant system as a whole. If the heater core is plugged, then just replace it. You also need to check any diverter valve for the heater since it could be bad, or has a vacuum leak, if it is operated by engine produced vacuum. This will be part of the whole coolant system, but might be over looked, so have everything checked that might have water flow through it, or that might control that flow.

Answer 3

If the temp gauge stays where it's supposed to then it may be a plugged heater core. Check the coolant level and if it's good take it to a repair shop and have it properly diagnosed.

Answer 4

Need to see if you need a new thermostat, or if something else is wrong like the heating cord, or may the water pump.

Answer 5

you have a clogged heater core and it is only letting a little fluid in. Get it unclogged and it should be OK