Heater blows cold air on driver's side

Tiny
LORIBAGGS
  • MEMBER
  • 2010 DODGE NITRO
  • V6
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 96,000 MILES
I only have one heat control knob. When the heat is on it blows hot on the passenger side and cold on the driver's side.
Thursday, December 30th, 2021 AT 6:17 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,300 POSTS
Hi,

That is an interesting one because there is only one blend air door regardless of whether it has automatic or manual climate control. The blend door is what controls the air temperature entering the vehicle.

Now, from experience only, I have found the heater cores on these vehicles partially plug causing this type of issue. The concept doesn't make sense because there is only one heater core, but it has fixed several vehicles having the same issues.

Since you are able to check the temperature on the passenger side, that tells me the door is moving as it should. As a result, the first thing I would recommend trying is to flush the heater core.

If you look under the hood, there will be two heater hoses going to the firewall. You will need to drain the radiator, or it will leak out when the hoses are removed.

Go to the parts store and purchase a radiator flush and 2' of heater hose the same size as in your vehicle. Disconnect the hoses at the firewall, install the new hose you have 1' on each side, and using a garden hose, flush water through both ways several times until everything looks clear. Next, using a funnel, pour the flush into the heater core blocking one side and allow it to sit for approximately 10 minutes, then flush it again with a garden hose in both directions to remove the flush. Reinstall the heater hoses and refill the coolant.

With the heater on high, start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature. Keep an eye on the coolant level in the overflow to make sure it isn't low. Fill as necessary.

Let me know if that takes care of the problem. It should. Also, if you have other questions, let me know.

Take care and Happy New Year.
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Thursday, December 30th, 2021 AT 11:13 PM
Tiny
LORIBAGGS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I read that the actuator that controls feet, defrost and feet is located near the petals. So then the dash wouldn't need to be taken out?
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Monday, January 3rd, 2022 AT 7:17 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,300 POSTS
Hi,

I believe you are referring to the mode door actuator. That is what directs air flow direction.

If you look at the attachment below, it explains how to replace one. And you are correct. It doesn't require the dash to be removed.

If you are referring to the blend air door actuator (responsible for air temperature entering the vehicle) see pic 2 below.

Let me know if this helps.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Monday, January 3rd, 2022 AT 5:05 PM

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