Thread: Intermittent Heater - '02 TD5 Defender

G'day all!

We've had an issue (well, one of the issues) with the Defender since we had it... the internal heater only works intermittently. When it works, it works just fine, and heats the cabin up quite sufficiently. When it doesn't work, it doesn't work at all. These two conditions can happen on the same trip, though once going it won't stop until the car (engine) is stopped... then it may start again, or it may not.

The fan works either way, and alternates between the feet and screen vents with no problems. I've checked that the cable turn the cam on the heater box, and no difference there between states either.

Any suggestions?

Cheers!
Michael
(TeamFA)

Originally Posted by SiddersC

So just to clarify, the fan blows all the time, but intermittent heat? - right?

Is it loosing any coolant?

Suspect an air lock, how long since the cooling system had been disturbed?

Correct, the fan blows all the time, only the heat is intermittent.

No coolant loss noticeable, and I have a level sensor fitted.

I changed the coolant perhaps about 6 months ago. I can't recall if the problem was there before that, but has definitely been there afterwards.

An air lock is something to consider - but would it be intermittent?

What would be the best way to check? I can check for air at the normal bleed point, but perhaps taking a hose off at the highest point at the heater?

Many thanks!
Michael
(TeamFA)