Chrysler 200 Heat Failure Fixed: Heater Core Troubles

I had a similar issue with my 2013 Chrysler 300 and can share my experience as someone with moderate car repair knowledge. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, weak heat and potential valve blockage in the cooling system. After noticing the problem, I took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a faulty connection in the wiring harness leading to the water valve that controls coolant flow to the heater core. The repair involved replacing some corroded connectors and ensuring proper valve operation. Total cost was 95€ which included diagnostic time and parts. The automotive valve system was otherwise fine, it was just the electrical connection causing the issue. Before I can provide more specific advice, could you share: How long has this been happening? Does the temperature gauge show normal operating temperature? Have you noticed any coolant leaks under the car? Does the heat output vary with engine RPM? These details would help determine if your issue is identical to what I experienced or if there might be other cooling system components involved. Once fixed, my heater worked perfectly again, but catching these issues early is important to prevent any potential damage to other components in the heating circuit.

Thanks for sharing such detailed info. From my vehicle with 16919 KM, I also experienced a similar heating issue that turned out to be a blocked valve in the cooling system. The symptoms match perfectly, weak heat output despite normal engine temperature. My repair involved flushing the cooling system to clear the valve blockage, which restored proper coolant flow to the heater core. Labor and parts came to 180€ total. The car heating has worked flawlessly since then, and I had no error codes reappear. Just make sure to get it checked soon, running with restricted coolant flow can potentially cause bigger issues down the line.

Thanks for the follow-up about your repair experience. Interesting that we both had valve-related issues but with different root causes, mine being electrical connections and yours a physical blockage. The cost difference makes sense since your repair required a complete system flush. These car heating problems with valve blockages seem fairly common on these models around the 15000-20000 km mark. Just a heads up, after my initial electrical fix, I started doing regular cooling system maintenance to prevent future issues. The car heating system has remained problem-free for the past 40000 km. Keeping an eye on coolant condition and doing periodic flushes really helps prevent automotive valve problems and engine overheating. Did you notice any specific coolant conditions that might have contributed to the blockage? The info could help others spot early warning signs before their heater output drops completely.

The blockage seemed to be caused by deteriorated coolant that had been in the system too long. The old coolant had turned brownish and had visible particles floating in it when they drained the system. I learned that coolant breaking down can create deposits that clog the automotive valve and restrict flow to the heater core. After the repair, I switched to changing coolant every 2 years or 30000 km, whichever comes first. The cooling system has stayed clean and the engine temperature stays perfectly regulated. No more issues with weak heat output or warning lights. For anyone else with similar symptoms, get your coolant tested if the heat starts feeling weak. Catching degraded coolant early can prevent the more expensive repairs needed when valves get completely blocked. A simple coolant flush costs way less than dealing with major engine overheating problems later. Really glad I got this fixed when I did. Having reliable heat and a properly functioning cooling system gives great peace of mind during daily driving.