Why doesn't my car's heater work?

My car's heater only works when I put it the fan on full. However, while the interior heats up, the engine temperature warning light comes on and I notice a burning smell. Any idea what the problem could be?

Asked on 6 December 2016 by Rachel Morgan

Answered by Honest John

Which car is this? If it's a Zafira, Astra or Corsa you have a serious problem, especially if the car ever had a replacement windscreen and if you have ever had an amateur or small garage attempt to fix the problem. Basically, the heater motor burns out and the idiot bodge is to bridge the resistor that ends up causing a wiring fire. If your car is any of those listed, get it to a Vauxhall dealer ASAP and do not ever switch on the heater fan until it is fixed.

Tags: unexplained smells technical issues

Similar questions

Exhaust and fumes entering cabin - what should I do?

I have fumes entering the cabin of my Mercedes-Benz E320. I can only shut it out by using the internal air circulation switch. The garage has said it was the cat filter blocking and I should drive it...

Ford Mondeo emiting a burning smell

Six months ago, I bought a 2009 Ford Mondeo 2.0 diesel estate from a main dealership. It has been great so far - it had 45,000 and now has 57,000 - was fully serviced on 45k and has had an oil change and...

Rotten egg smell - is it the catalytic converter?

My Daihatsu Terios has developed a rotten egg smell, emitting from the exhaust. Is it the catalytic converter? Should Diahatsu replace the vehicle?