Reasons Behind Issues in the Heater Core of a BMW from Certified Mechanics in Dallas

The BMW brand is synonymous with high performance, precision, and class. More than just a status symbol, the BMW is a renowned, trusted brand on the road. Even the best brands on the auto market are still susceptible to problems due to wear and tear over time.

As BMW parts can be expensive to replace, a proactive approach to caring for your vehicle can help thwart some of these problems and keep your vehicle running optimally for years to come. One such problem you may encounter is with your BMW’s heater core. Let’s discuss the purpose of your vehicle’s heater core, signs your heater core is going bad, and where to go to fix the problem.

The Purpose of the Heater Core

The heater core is located in the dashboard of your car and controls the warmth in your vehicle. Air blows over hot coolant, which provides the warm air into your vehicle’s cabin you rely on during cold days. Coolant is circulated through hoses, while the heater core allows your vehicle’s defrost to operate properly. When problems arise with the heater core, you’ll start to see signs of malfunction, which we’re going to discuss in the next section.

Issues with the heater core can inflict damage on your vehicle’s engine if not addressed immediately, so if you suspect anything amiss with yours, book an appointment for your BMW to be seen for diagnosis as soon as possible.

The most common cause of heater core issues stem from coolant leaks. Checking your coolant levels on a routine basis is a smart preventative measure you can take to avoid heater core problems from flaring up.

Signs Your Heater Core is Going Bad

Below are the hallmark signs your heater core is going bad. If you encounter any of these signs of heater core malfunction, it is imperative you schedule an appointment with your trusted BMW service center as soon as possible. If the problem is left unattended, it can lead to engine damage and an expensive repair bill you don’t want.

Fog Inside Your Vehicle

Experiencing fog inside your car could be due to one of two reasons: The heater core could be blowing fog or smoke into your vehicle, or the defrosters aren’t working properly as a result of the heater core malfunctioning.

Coolant Loss

Coolant leaks are the main cause of heater core issues. A coolant leak in the heater core can cause coolant loss, which leads to the engine overheating, potentially inflicting significant damage to your engine. If you notice you can’t keep your coolant levels elevated, you may be dealing with coolant loss due to a heater core malfunction.

Cold Air

If your heater core is blowing cold air, this is a sign something may be wrong with the heater core. Air is blown over the hot coolant, which is what makes your heater work properly, warming the air in your vehicle’s cabin on a cold day. If the air vents are blowing out cold air, your heater core may be leaking out the hot coolant.

Musty or Sweet Smells

A leaking heater core can cause a musty or sweet odor similar to candy or fruit to emit from the engine coolant through the vents. If you encounter an unusual sweet or musky smell, get it checked out.

Cold Air, Hot Engine

If you encounter cold air coupled with a hot engine, this is a major sign something is wrong with your heater core. The combination of cold air blowing through your vents with an overheating engine signifies leaking coolant.

Ultimate Bimmer Service Can Help

If you’re dealing with a malfunctioning heater core, you’ll want to schedule an appointment for your BMW to be seen as soon as possible. Aside from suffering from cold air car rides, you risk damaging your vehicle’s engine.

Ultimate Bimmer Service is your one-stop shop for BMW repairs, and we’ve got you covered. Proudly serving the Carrolton and Dallas, TX communities, our certified technicians will diagnose and repair your heater core issues and have you back on the road in no time. Call us today to schedule your appointment.