1. Simple Checks:
* Fan Speed: Is the fan blowing at all? If not, the problem could be a blown fuse, a faulty blower motor resistor (controls fan speeds), or a malfunctioning blower motor itself. Check your owner's manual for fuse locations and diagrams.
* Temperature Control: Is the temperature control set to "hot"? Try moving the temperature control lever through its range to see if anything changes (even a slight warm-up is an indication the system is working partially).
* Airflow Direction: Is the airflow directed to the vents where you expect it? Check the vent controls.
* Coolant Level: Check your coolant level in the radiator overflow tank. Low coolant means the system doesn't have enough fluid to heat.
* Thermostat: A stuck closed thermostat prevents coolant from circulating and heating.
2. More Involved Checks (requiring some mechanical knowledge):
* Blower Motor: If the fan doesn't work at all, the blower motor itself might be faulty. This requires accessing the blower motor (usually under the dashboard) and testing it with a multimeter.
* Blower Motor Resistor: If the fan works on high speed but not on lower speeds, the blower motor resistor is likely the culprit. This is a common failure point.
* Heater Core: The heater core is a small radiator inside the car that warms the air. If it's clogged, leaking, or broken, it won't heat the air effectively. Leaks can lead to a sweet smell inside the car.
* Coolant Flow: If coolant isn't circulating properly, it could be a clogged heater core, a problem with the water pump, or a faulty thermostat (as mentioned above). A mechanic may need to check coolant flow using a pressure test.
* Blend Doors: These control the mixture of hot and cold air. If they are broken or stuck, they could prevent hot air from reaching the vents. This usually results in only cold or lukewarm air, regardless of the temperature setting.
* Vacuum Lines: Some systems use vacuum lines to control various parts of the HVAC system. Leaking vacuum lines can cause malfunctions.
3. Getting Help:
If you're not comfortable checking these things yourself, it's best to take your Chrysler to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately and repair it efficiently. Providing them with information about the symptoms you're experiencing (e.g., no heat at all, only hot on high speed, etc.) will be helpful.
Remember to always prioritize safety. Working on your car's cooling system involves hot coolant, so allow the engine to cool completely before attempting any repairs.
