AJT123

I've noticed lately that when I start my car after its been sitting, for example starting it and letting it warm up, it will blow cold air until I start driving, even when the gauge says the car is warm. It's no big deal, literally the second the engine starts revving (like when I drive off)it heats right up. The only thing I can think of is that I may need new coolant.

Anyone have any input?

AJT123

I am at 93k and have not had the timing belt/water pump service done yet. Planning to do it at around 105k, but ive seen on forums where it was suggested that this is a sign that the water pump is about to fail...I don't need a blown engine so if this is the case I'll have them do the whole 90k service tomorrow (Im taking it in for an oil change anyway).

sikIS300

Sounds like a stuck thermostat. Which is very commen. The water pump only fail if the bearing goes bad which makes a hell of a noise and if it leaks.

AJT123

What about if the impeller is worn? The car was babied but it is 9 years old now and past 90k.

This isn't anything drastic....it doesnt turn cold when I stop at a light or anything....it just seems I need to give it gas to get it going...then it's fine....the whole process takes like 3 seconds.

toyo

There is no way an impeller could be eroded away at 90K. You either would have to be running straight water or have a big time electrolysis problem!

yuri.ber

iTrader: (7)

Check your coolant level. If its low, add some and it'll blow hot air again. If low coolant level is the issue look for a radiator leak. I have a small leak on a top radiator seam and as I drive it splatters antifreeze onto engine. I got a new dealer radiator already, just no time to put it in yet. By the way mileage on my car is 112k.

Oldguys

I concur with prior post on checking coolant level in expansion tank. Mine did the same thing and turned out to be a crack in radiator leaking small amounts of fluid. Once the tank was refilled the heater worked just fine. When I replace the timing belt I will swap out the radiator core. Till then I keep a gallon of distilled water in the trunk to refill the expansion tank.

Lynzoid

I just replaced my thermostat and i have 2001 and about 160k miles. It wasn't stuck, but o-ring inside it was worn and letting coolant bypass the thermostat.

Gene01

Oldguys - the owner's manual specifies filling the reservoir with coolant, not water. Over time, you will dilute the coolant by adding water.

AJT123

Interesting how this old thread was revived lol. I think I forgot to follow up with what happened:

It was simply low coolant. They tested the cooling system for leaks and found none. Refilled it and haven't had any problems since. Heat blows warm and strong.

Strange, but as long as nothing is wrong I'm fine with it lol.