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My 2002 Passat heater blows air, but it is cold air. What could be the problem?
2002 Volkswagen
Hello,
Thank You for choosing "Just Answer" for your questions concerning your Passat. Yes, I can help you.
This condition is most often caused by a restricted heater core. Although the coolant flowing through the hoses is sufficiently hot to heat the climate control air, the heat of the heater core is dissipated into the system air faster than the coolant can flow through to heat the core. Some claim success by back flushing the core to expel the contaminants. I have had very little success doing so. I have gotten improvement, but never really fixed one.
I suggest you try to confirm the core blockage as follows. Fully warm the engine to operating temperature. Shut down the climate control system so that no air flows through the system. drive the vehicle at slow speeds or run at an elevated idle for a few minuets. turn on the defrosters at maximum heat. If the heat appears hot at first, but then rapidly diminishes, the core is likely the cause. If however there is no heat a temperature blend door or sensor may be at fault.
I hope that I have answered your questions and addressed your concerns. Should you have any further questions on this matter, please do not hesitate to ask. I want you to be 100% satisfied with my answer.
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Thank You!
Jake "THE AUDI DOCTOR"
VW Technician
Over 30 years experience with VW, Audi, BMW. Factory trained, former Shop Foreman, Service Manager
I will try this tonight and see what happens. THank you. One more question, if this is not the problem, could it be a thermostat or heater control valve? and if so, how difficult are they to replace if we have the manual? and do I have to pay $9 for each answer?
No, it could not be the thermostat , unless the vehicle was always running cold. Is the temperature gauge in the middle where it usually runs?
There is no "heater core valve". the temperature is regulated with a blend door and is a possibility, but the likely cause is the restricted heater core. This is a very common occurrence.
Thank You
Jake
so we would have to replace the heater core? if so, is this a difficult process. Looks like I can purchase one for about $60? is it better to have a shop do this? My husband is very mechanically inclined, but I do not want to get him in a position where the entire engine is to be removed to fix this. Thanks so much Jake. I appreciate your help.