Genuine Toyota Heater Cores

Let us know by webchat or below methods if you can’t find the part you are looking for.

What is a Toyota Heater Core?

A Toyota Heater Core is a vital component of your vehicle's climate control system. It acts as a miniature radiator, typically located behind the dashboard. Hot engine coolant is circulated through the heater core's small tubes. When you turn on your vehicle's heater, a blower fan forces air over the fins of the heated core. This air is warmed and then directed through the dashboard vents to heat the interior of your car, keeping you comfortable in cold weather. It works in conjunction with the radiator, water pump, and heater hoses as part of the engine's overall cooling circuit.

Heater Core Life Expectancy & Failure Symptoms

A genuine Toyota Heater Core is built to last, typically performing reliably for the lifespan of the vehicle, often 10+ years or over 160,000 km. However, factors like coolant quality, improper coolant mixtures, or internal corrosion can lead to premature failure.

How to Know if Your Heater Core is Bad:

Recognizing the signs of a failing heater core can prevent further damage and discomfort:

  • No Heat: The most common sign is a lack of warm air from the dashboard vents, even when the engine is at operating temperature and the heater is set to hot.
  • Sweet Smell Inside the Car: A distinct, sweet odour (from the coolant) inside the cabin is a strong indicator of a heater core leak.
  • Foggy Windows: Leaking coolant vapour can cause the interior of your windshield and windows to fog up persistently, often with a faint, oily film that is difficult to clear.
  • Coolant Leak Inside: You may notice dampness on the passenger side floor mats, often with a colourful (pink, red) or slimy residue from the coolant.
  • Low Coolant Warning: An unexplained, recurring drop in coolant levels with no visible leak under the hood can point to a leak inside the cabin.

While a faulty heater core will not typically prevent your car from driving, it is not recommended to ignore the problem for safety reasons. If you suspect a faulty heater core, it is best to address the issue promptly.

Explore Our Range of Genuine Toyota Heater Cores

At Nunawading Toyota Parts, we understand the importance of a reliable heating system. We stock 100% genuine Toyota Heater Cores, engineered to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle. Our range includes parts for all major Toyota models, including the Hilux, Corolla, Camry, RAV4, LandCruiser, and Prado.

If the specific heater core for your Toyota model isn't listed in our online store, please contact our parts specialists. We have access to Toyota's comprehensive inventory and can help you locate the exact genuine part you need.