Are block heaters still needed for newer cars?

Tiny
JAKIN
  • MEMBER
  • FORD TAURUS
I was told by someone, not a mechanic, that block heaters are not needed on "newer" cars. Is this true or a load of crap? If it is still a good idea to have a block heater in a 2004 Taurus 3.0 24 valve duratec for instance, about how much would one cost, installed? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Wednesday, July 19th, 2006 AT 2:18 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
TAURUSWHEEL
  • MECHANIC
  • 718 POSTS
I would think that if the outside temps in the dead of winter were below zero, on a regular basis, an engine heater, or oil heater, might be a worthwhile investment, remember though, the engine may be warm, but I would take it easy on the trans for a couple of miles, up in northern NY, temps are getting down in the -20 and colder ranges, seems that some sort of heater might be a good idea, remember, with diesel you gotta have it no matter, I know a few who love in the colder winter weather, to be honedt, they've never mentioned it. I can see also with the newer tecnology with fuel sytems and better viscosity oils, maybe you don't really need to have one, I don't know if the dealer offers them anymore with gas engined cars.
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Wednesday, July 19th, 2006 AT 5:31 PM

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