Bad heater core?

[Yetigain]

I let my jeep run for 5-10 mins to warm up the other day. Steam started to seep out of the vents and there was a strong smell of coolant.. It was not overheating but I shut it off and checked for leaks - no leaks under the dash or under the vehicle. Coolant level is normal. I started it again and the heat and A/C work just fine.

After a quick google search it seems like the heater core is bad / going bad, right? Would the heat still work if the heater core went bad? I know it is a labor intensive replacement but I'm sure I can handle it. I would hate to go through all that work if it were something else.

Thanks in advance for any advice / thoughts.

 

[MountaineerTom]

Yes, sounds like the heater core. The heat would still work too.

 

[ElectricWizard]

Yep heater-core, exact symptoms mine was having. Pic of old one.

 

[Yetigain]

Yep heater-core, exact symptoms mine was having. Pic of old one.

View attachment 126638

Do you remember what brand you used when replacing it?

 

[ElectricWizard]

Do you remember what brand you used when replacing it?

I used a Performance Radiator #9233 since the OEM one is no longer available for my year, I have a 2000. You would need a different part number for your year though.

 

[Yetigain]

I used a Performance Radiator #9233 since the OEM one is no longer available for my year. I have a 2000. You would need a different part number for your year though.

Awesome. It seems like there are not many replacement options.

Thanks alot!

 

[reddvltj]

no leaks under the dash or under the vehicle. Coolant level is normal. I started it again and the heat and A/C work just fine.

Have you checked the heater hose connections to make sure they are tight? I have an 06 Cummins that has a tiny hose located next to the block behind the turbo that has a habit of seeping until it gets warmed up then the leak and smell go away, I tightened the clamp and no more issues.

 

[Yetigain]

Have you checked the heater hose connections to make sure they are tight? I have an 06 Cummins that has a tiny hose located next to the block behind the turbo that has a habit of seeping until it gets warmed up then the leak and smell go away, I tightened the clamp and no more issues.

I have not checked the connections yet but I will. Thanks!