Q: How do I use the engine block heater in a 2012 Nissan Altima?

asked by on December 14, 2015

How do I use the engine block heater?

If your car is equipped with an engine block heater, this is an important safeguard to use during severe cold weather. Here’s how to use it (if your car is equipped with one):

  1. Make sure the engine is off.

  2. Pop the hood.

  3. Pull out the cord for the heater.

  4. Plug it into an outlet (properly grounded) or an extension cord connected to an outlet.

  5. Run the heater for two to four hours to warm up the engine coolant.

  6. Make sure to put away the cord before you start the engine again.

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

Car making rattling sound
The problem is likely the catalytic converter deteriorating. This happens over time, and the catalyst will rattle around inside the steel housing. The noise is loudest at start up or while revving the engine. With the engine off and cooled off,...
Changing the front struts as a complete assembly
When I looked up the parts, the struts should be the same on both sides. When installing the struts, you need to make sure the top mount is in the same position as the removed one before you try and...
Keyless remote broken
The system will need to be checked to see if the drivers door lock is having an issue or the remote is the cause. The remote may have a bad button for the drivers door since it is the one...
My Check Engine Light came on and my car rattles horribly.
The catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/catalytic-converter-replacement) will definitely cause a rattling sound when it is worn out or needing to be replaced, which will also cause your Check Engine Light to come on. There are small honeycomb like pieces inside the converter...
Key fob won't unlock all 4 doors. Only the drivers door
Hi there. Is this a smart key or a physical key and wireless fob? Do the other door locks work when the lock switch on the driver's door is operated? Have you tried pressing the unlock button 2 times quickly...
2007 Silverado - "Reduced Engine Power"
Hi there: Without being there, it's difficult to give you an idea as to what might be causing the 'chirping' noise or the Reduced Engine Power light. However, anytime you have an error or warning light come on and you...
Replacement alternator 136 amp vs 160 amp.
Hi there. The alternators should working just fine. I recommend that putting the brand of alternator that is on the truck in the 160 amp size. There are different models of alternators for the Dodge Ram 1500 trucks. Some have...
Do you reccomend replacing the rear self leveling air shocks with just standard gas shocks, or stick with the self leveling?
The rear coil springs that were installed on the vehicle in the load leveling versus non load leveling models are different (I checked the GM parts catalog to confirm). Inasmuch as the spring and the shock were matched for handling...
I have a Volkswagen Jetta 02 and it starts up but when in gear it won't move when I press the gas pedal what do you think is wrong
Hi Monticello. Thanks for contacting us tonight. In most cases, this issue is caused by a damaged shift solenoid or perhaps an obstruction of debris inside the transmission hydraulic lines. It could also be caused by damaged inside the transmission...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai Hyundai has been making a real name for itself in the midsize sedan class in the past few years, and the 2012 Hyundai Sonata is no exception. With an attractive price tag, a great warranty, and a choice of...
How to Buy a Good Quality Heat Shield
Heat Heat shields are used to keep everything cool and under wraps when you are heating it up on the track or just on the road in a hot part of the country. A heat shield provides necessary protection for...
Signs You Need a New Car Heater
Car heaters are a key car part for those living in cooler climates. A common sign your car heater isn't working is when air doesn't heat up quickly.