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Defroster not working properly

Tiny
TARP
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 NISSAN FRONTIER
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 100,000 MILES
For the past few weeks, in the mornings when it's really cold and the windshield is icy and needs to be defrosted, only cold air comes out. I let it run for 15 minutes or so, and nothing. But when I drive it, it takes only one mile to clear the windshield to clear and hot air blowing. What could this be? Thanks, Tarp
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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022 AT 8:47 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,217 POSTS
Hi,

The first thing that it sounds like is the engine coolant is low. Have you checked it? In addition to the coolant reservoir, when the engine is cold and if you have a radiator cap (it should) on the radiator, check the level in the radiator also. However, only open it when the engine is cold.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022 AT 8:03 PM
Tiny
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Thank you, Joe. I went to two auto repair shops and they said it could be the heater core. Went to a parts store, and the lady asked when the last time I checked the coolant. After a few seconds, she said, never mind, check the coolant and then come back to me. Checked it this morning and sure enough, it's low and none in the reservoir. Thanks for responding.
Tarp
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Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 AT 5:56 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,217 POSTS
Hi,

I had a feeling that was the issue. Did you refill both the radiator and the reservoir? Also, pay attention to see if you notice any leaks or excessive white smoke from the exhaust. It went somewhere. LOL

When the car was at an idle, there wasn't enough coolant to circulate. Once the engine speed was increased, the water pump spun faster and got some to the heater core.

Here is a link you may find helpful to make sure there are no leaks. Take a look through it and let me know if you need help with anything. Also, please feel free to come back anytime in the future. You are always welcome here.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

Take care of yourself,

Joe

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Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 AT 6:28 PM
Tiny
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Thank you again Joe. I filled the radiator and reservoir, about half gallon. Unfortunately, the mornings haven't been icy cold, so I don't know for sure if it worked. It may be wishful thinking, but I think it got warmer after 5 minutes or so, idling.
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Saturday, February 26th, 2022 AT 3:05 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,217 POSTS
Hi,

I suspect that was the issue. If you haven't already, when the engine is cold, recheck the radiator to make sure it hasn't gone down. If the rest of the system was low, it can happen.

Please feel free to come back anytime, and if I did help, you are very welcome.

Take good care of yourself and let me know if something changes.

Joe
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Saturday, February 26th, 2022 AT 6:28 PM

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