Tom

Hi  Tom,

Q I am the proud owner of a 1996 Nissan Maxima, which I bought new 13

years ago. This winter, even on days when it is 35 degrees, I have noticed
that the heater does not blow warm air while the car idles. However, it does
blow warm air when I step on the gas. Could the problem be the thermostat?
The plastic reservoir of antifreeze appears to be below the “low” mark when
the car is cold. Could this be the problem?

Guy—Walla   Walla,  Washington

Guy,

A Check the coolant level, fill it to proper level, and see if this solves the

problem. It’s possible that, due to low coolant, there is an air bubble traveling
through the cooling system. This condition would cause a void of water in
the heater core (and thus warm air) during times of idle. If the level is low,
then have the system checked for a leak and have it repaired.