How to Unclog a Heater Core
A radiator flush may unclog the heater core if debris causes the clog.
When to Replace the Heater Core
If flushing fails, replace the core. Signs of a clogged heater core include reduced heat.
Is Flushing the Heater Core Worth It?
Flushing out the tubes in the heater core will allow the coolant to flow more easily.
To clean the blockage, flush water or air through the heater core. This removes grime and dirt causing the clog.
A clogged core prevents coolant passing through, limiting heat transfer. Flushing may remove clogs. If flushing fails, replace the core.
Replacing the heater core can be an expensive job, and usually costs between $564 – $927 for parts and labor.
A heater core flush is a process that involves cleaning and removing debris, rust, and other gunk from the heater core of your vehicle.
Heater cores and radiators are both referred to as heat exchangers, which is a fancy way of saying they take heat from a source (the engine) and transfer it to a fluid – in this case, ambient air.
When you turn the heater on inside your car, a valve opens that allows hot coolant to flow to the heater core.
There are many benefits to replacing your heater core.