Q: Heat won't turn on with car running.

asked by on November 22, 2016

I got a remote car starter, I started my car this morning for maybe 10 minutes. When I got out to it the car was still running but the windows were still frosted! I got in and the engine was warm but the heat wasn't running! I had to manually turn the heater on and wait for it to defrost when it should already have been defrosted. I do have climate control if that has anything to do with it. What is going on? How can I fix it? Please help! Thank you.

My car has 100000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Defroster is not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. With the Fusion vehicles, I recommend turning the defroster on high before you shut off the car to the day before. This way when you turn your car on by remote start, the defroster system will be working while the vehicle’s engine is warming up. The climate control is for the comfort of the cabin department, but not for to defrost the windows. This must be set manually.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Key stuck in ignition and won't turn.
If it is an automatic then you need to turn the car on and put it in gear and then back in park and see if that frees up the switch. Also turn the steering wheel to the left while...
Rumbling noise and brake light
The brake light is there to let you know when the brake fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-often-should-brake-fluid-be-changed) is low. It is very common for it to turn on and off when it is right at the point of being to low. When you...
Heater does not blow hot air.
Hi there. Check the coolant level in the radiator and make sure that its full. Check the heater core valve near the firewall in the engine compartment and see if valve is working. Feel the heater hoses before the valve...
Intermittent and low speed wiper don't work fast speed wiper works 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Hi there - the lack of slow or intermittent motor speed can be caused by 2 issues: failure of the switches on the steering column stalk, or within the motor pulse control inside the motor housing. You're going to need...
Bad vibration when accelerating.
This could be a result of the brake caliper sticking. A few different things can make the brakes stick or lock up. The master cylinder may be causing this if it has not been properly bled. If you loosen the...
2015 nissan altima won't open from inside
This is often related to a malfunctioning door lock actuator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/door-lock-actuator-replacement), a blown fuse or a faulty power door lock switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/door-lock-switch-replacement). When you use the door lock switch in the car it sends a signal to a relay which...
Do I need to replace the whole rack and Pinnon if I found the leak
If you found the leak and the rack and pinion is leaking then you will need to replace it due to most repairs require specialized tools and training to rebuild or repair steering rack and pinions. If it pressure hose...
If a left cv axle is bad, would you lose power to the wheel? Would it also effect the right side?
The CV axle is just a shaft with joints on each end. The axle will transmit whatever power is applied to it but if the splines on the shaft are sheared off, or a joint is physically broken (separated), the...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Turn Signal Switch
Common signs include the turn signal indicator continuing to blink when the steering wheel returns to the center and having to hold the lever down.
How Long Does a Cruise Control Switch Last?
The The cruise control switch is mounted on the steering wheel of your vehicle and is intended to make driving less strenuous. Once you choose a speed, you can depress the cruise control switch, and your vehicle will stay at...
How Long Does a Refrigerant Pressure Sensor (Switch) Last?
Your Your car’s air conditioning system helps keep you and your passengers cool and comfortable during hot weather. It also plays a role in operating the front defroster. In order to operate properly, the system needs a refrigerant – just...