Question about the heater

[liquidgraphix]

I have a '98 ti and not too long ago the heater wouldn't blow hot air, it was rather cool air. Recently I noticed that the temp gauge doesn't rest in the middle like it used to, it tends to go to the middle then, while i'm driving, starts to sway to the left (blue side) then back to the middle, and keeps doing that for a while. I'm actually thinking of getting that code reader tool that tells you what's wrong with the car (you plug it into the engine prongs)

Am I right to assume it's the thermostat that needs replacing? Or is it something else as well? If anyone knows anything about this let me know what I can do to correct it and about how much I'm looking at $$$wise. Thanks ahead of time.

[Techti]

There's some info on the board about heater issues...if you search you'll find it. I had the same problem this winter...just got my ti in Chicago where my parents live so I definitely needed the heat. Took it to the dealer and they fixed it free of charge for me...it was a loose connection to the temp dial. That's one of the two common issues that are listen elsewhere on the forums so it may be worth looking into. That's my 2 cents...

[liquidgraphix]

thanks for the info, appreciate it

[1996 328ti]

I don't think a scan tool is going to help.
I have the same symptom when I have the heat on and it is 20F outside.
Plus I notice it more this year since I have a cold air intake.

So if you have your heat OFF, does it stay in the middle?

[liquidgraphix]

Ok, I turned the car on and let it warm up without the heater on, it was below 0 out too. The temp gauge went to the middle, I headed out to work and noticed, aside that my fingers were going numb, the temp gauge going to the left towards the cool section. So it does this regardless of the heater being on or off. Any ideas of what I'm in for? :confused:

[ScnStlr]

I live in Chicago and I had the same problem as you describe. All that is needed is to replace the thermostat and Viola! instant quick heat. My mechanic says he didn't see anything wrong with it but we replaced it anyways and the heat works great now. My car is at 100,000 miles so i guess that is pretty good use on one thermostats. ;}

[liquidgraphix]

Thanks a mil, that's what my first impression was. I suppose it wouldn't hurt to replace it. Thanks to everyone, big help once again

[Techti]

FYI, i had the problem after my thermostat was replaced...so that may not be the problem for you.

[1996 328ti]

The simplest thing might be to bleed the system. Cost zero.

[motorsport]

it also sounds like you might have a clogged heater core.

[liquidgraphix]

thanks, i'll be sure to mention these things when i go to get it fixed.