Heater Cores

Is there a sweet smell of coolant in the cabin, or is the carpet wet under the dashboard? It can be caused by a leaking heater core. This category brings together heater cores from OMIX for older and newer Jeep models, e.g. CJ, Wrangler and Cherokee.

What the heater core does

The heater core is typically located in the heater box behind the dashboard. Hot coolant from the engine flows through the core, and the blower sends the heated air into the cabin and onto the windows. A clogged core gives weak heat, while a leaking one can lose coolant, and a low level can eventually lead to overheating.

How to choose the right heater core

The starting point is your car. In our heater cores for cabin heating, each part is listed with model year and model:

• Model and year: e.g. 72-77 and 78-86 Jeep CJ, 87-95 Wrangler (YJ), 02-06 Wrangler (TJ), 07-18 Wrangler JK and 84-96 Cherokee (XJ).
• Connections: compare the position and diameter of the pipe outlets with the old part.
• Accessories: consider replacing hoses, clamps and seals in the heater box at the same time.

Installation and maintenance

Installation depends on the model and may require removing parts of the dashboard or heater box. Afterwards, refill with the coolant recommended by the vehicle manufacturer and bleed the system so air pockets don't cause uneven heat. The parts are from OMIX, and all models are gathered under heater cores.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if the heater core is leaking?

Typical signs are a sweet smell in the cabin, a greasy film on the inside of the windshield, moisture under the dashboard and a dropping coolant level with no visible leak at the engine. A pressure test of the cooling system can confirm it.

Can a clogged heater core be flushed instead of replaced?

If the problem is caused by deposits, flushing can often improve the heat. If the core is leaking, corroded or still clogged after flushing, replacement is typically the solution. It depends on the condition of the core.

Why is the heat weak after installing a new heater core?

It is often caused by air in the cooling system, which can give weak or fluctuating heat. Bleed the system according to the vehicle's service instructions, and check that the heater valve and flaps in the heater box work.