Glossary / Engine

heater core

40 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

The heater core is like a tiny radiator inside your car that takes hot liquid from the engine and uses it to warm the air you breathe in the cabin. If it leaks, your car can get cold and wet.

Technical Definition

The heater core is a small radiator-like component that transfers heat from the engine coolant to the air blown into the passenger compartment. It is essential for cabin heating and can be a common source of leaks.

Hear It Discussed

"I will admit that like it is. [3289.3s] Does your heater core leak on your wife's shoes? [3291.2s] Who cares?"
The New Audi Supercar, Buzz Lightyear 911, A Filson Edition Bronco And MORE! THIS CAR POD! EP115 THIS CAR POD! with Doug DeMuro & Friends! 54:47

"We're in shorts because we're dying of heat up front because the heat, [2514.1s] the guy bypassed the heat, the heater core. So thank God it was cooler in the car,"
20 Years In Automotive Journalism: Jason Cammisa’s Most Insane Assignment 20 Years In Automotive Journalism: Jason Cammisa’s Most Insane Assignment — Carmudgeon Ep. 244 The Carmudgeon Show 41:50

"You have air trapped in the heater core and as the coolant is trying to get into the heater core and pass the air, it's making the same kind of gurgling noise."
#2649: Look Out for Those Gila Monsters! The Best of Car Talk 19:57