Joseph Weaver Are you finding it difficult to turn on the heat in your Subaru Outback? Are you worried that your car’s heating system is not working correctly? You are not alone! Many Outback owners face similar issues every winter season.
In this article, we will provide you with an easy-to-follow guide on how to turn on the heat in your Subaru Outback. We will also provide you with some troubleshooting tips to help you fix common heating system problems.
Understanding the Heat System in Subaru Outback
Before we dive into the steps of turning on the heat, let’s first understand how the heating system in Subaru Outback works. The car’s heating system uses heat from the engine’s cooling system to warm up the car’s interior. The process starts with the engine’s coolant being pumped through the heater core located inside the dashboard. A fan then pushes air over the heated coils, and the warm air is released into the car’s interior through the vents.
Turning On the Heat Using the Dashboard
Now that you know how the heating system in your Subaru Outback works let’s get started with turning on the heat. Follow these simple steps to turn on the heat using the dashboard:
- Start your car’s engine
- Turn the temperature knob to the right to increase the heat
- Turn the fan speed knob to your desired speed
- Direct the air to your preferred location using the airflow control knob
That’s it! Your Subaru Outback should now start blowing warm air into the car’s interior.
Making Sure the Heating System is Working Correctly
If you are not getting warm air from your car’s heating system, then there could be something wrong with the system. Here are a few things you can do to make sure your heat system is working correctly:
- Check the coolant level: It’s possible that your coolant level might be low, preventing the engine’s coolant from reaching the heater core. Check your car’s owner manual to locate the coolant reservoir and refill it if needed.
- Check the thermostat: A faulty thermostat could also prevent your car’s heating system from working correctly. In such cases, you might need to replace the thermostat.
- Check the HVAC fuse: If the HVAC fuse is blown, your car’s heating system might stop working. Check the fuse box, locate the HVAC fuse, and replace it if needed.
Troubleshooting Tips for When the Heat is Not Turning On
If your car’s heating system still doesn’t work after following the above steps, here are a few additional troubleshooting tips you can try:
- Check for coolant leaks: If there is a coolant leak, then there won’t be enough coolant to reach the heater core, causing the heating system to stop working. Check for any visible coolant leaks and get them repaired.
- Check the heater control valve: The heater control valve regulates the flow of hot coolant to the heater core. A defective or faulty control valve could prevent the heating system from working correctly.
- Check the blower motor: If the blower motor is not working, then no air will blow onto the heater core, causing the heating system to stop working. Check if you can hear the blower motor running when you turn on the heat. If not, it’s possible that you need to replace the blower motor.
FAQ
Q: Why is my Subaru Outback blowing cold air instead of hot?
A: If your car’s heating system is blowing cold air, then it’s likely that the thermostat is stuck open, there is a coolant leak, or the heater core is clogged. You will need to identify the problem and get it fixed.
Q: How do I know if my heating system is not working correctly?
A: If you are not getting any warm air from the heating system, or the air blowing out of the vents is not as warm as it used to be, then there could be something wrong with your heating system.
Q: Can I fix the heating system problems myself?
A: It depends on the complexity of the problem. If it’s a simple fix like checking the coolant level or replacing the HVAC fuse, then you can do it yourself. However, for more complex issues like a clogged heater core, it’s best to take your car to a professional mechanic.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to turn on the heat in your Subaru Outback and troubleshoot common heating system problems, you can stay warm and comfortable on your winter drives. Remember, regular maintenance of your car’s heating system is critical to ensure that it works correctly. If you are still facing issues, take your car to a professional mechanic and get it inspected. Stay warm, and happy driving! 🚗💨
