Cold weather in Spokane and Deer Park, WA, can be tough on your vehicle, especially its heating and cooling system. When temperatures drop, minor issues can quickly turn into big problems that affect comfort, safety, and engine performance. At Sculley’s Automotive in Spokane & Deer Park, WA, we regularly help drivers fix cold-weather heating and cooling issues before they lead to breakdowns.
Low Coolant Levels or Coolant Leaks
One of the most common cold-weather problems is low coolant. Coolant levels can drop due to leaks in hoses, the radiator, or the water pump. When coolant is low, your heater may blow cold air, and your engine can overheat—even in winter.
Fixing this issue starts with finding and repairing the leak, then refilling the system with the proper coolant mixture to protect against freezing.
Heater Blowing Cold or Lukewarm Air
If your heater isn’t warming up as it should, the problem could be low coolant, a clogged heater core, or a stuck thermostat. These issues prevent hot coolant from flowing through the heater core, resulting in little to no heat in the cabin.
A proper inspection can pinpoint the cause and restore reliable heat for cold mornings and long winter drives.
Thermostat Problems in Cold Weather
A thermostat helps regulate engine temperature. In cold weather, a thermostat that sticks open keeps the engine from warming up properly. This leads to weak heat, poor fuel efficiency, and increased engine wear.
Replacing a faulty thermostat helps your engine reach the correct operating temperature and improves heater performance.
Overheating Despite Freezing Temperatures
It may seem strange, but engines can still overheat in winter. Blocked radiators, failing cooling fans, or circulation issues can cause overheating even when it’s cold outside. Overheating should always be taken seriously, as it can cause major engine damage.
Weak Defroster and Poor Visibility
Your defroster relies on the heating system to remove moisture from the windshield. If it’s slow or ineffective, airflow problems, heater core issues, or blower motor failures may be to blame. Poor defrost performance reduces visibility and makes winter driving unsafe.
Prevent Cold-Weather Heating and Cooling Issues With Maintenance
Routine inspections are the best way to prevent heating and cooling problems in winter. Checking coolant levels, inspecting hoses, testing the thermostat, and ensuring proper airflow can help catch issues early and avoid roadside trouble.
How Sculley’s Automotive Can Help
At Sculley’s Automotive in Spokane & Deer Park, WA, we inspect your entire heating and cooling system and explain any issues clearly. Our goal is to keep your vehicle running safely, comfortably, and reliably through every cold-weather season.
Common Heating and Cooling System Problems in Cold Weather and How to Fix Them
If your heater isn’t working properly or you’re concerned about your cooling system this winter, don’t wait. Schedule a visit with Sculley’s Automotive in Spokane & Deer Park, WA, and let our experienced team help keep you warm, safe, and confident on the road.