9 best heater for car

A heater for a car, also commonly known as a car heater or automotive heating system, is an essential component of a vehicle's climate control system. It is designed to provide warmth and comfort to the occupants of the vehicle during cold weather conditions.Here are some key points about car heaters:

  1. Heating System Components: A car's heating system typically consists of several components, including a heater core, blower fan, controls, and ductwork. The heater core is responsible for heating the air, while the blower fan distributes the warm air throughout the cabin.

  2. Coolant-Based Heating: Most car heaters operate by using the engine's coolant to generate heat. Hot coolant flows through the heater core, and air passing over the core is warmed and blown into the cabin.

  3. Temperature Control: Modern car heaters offer temperature control through a dashboard control panel or knobs that allow the driver and passengers to adjust the level of heat to their comfort.

  4. Defrosting: Car heaters are also essential for defrosting and clearing the windshield and other windows of frost and condensation. Warm air is directed to the windshield and side windows to improve visibility.

  5. Modes: Car heaters often have different operating modes, including vent mode (blowing warm air into the cabin), defrost mode (directing warm air to the windshield), and floor mode (heating the floor area). These modes can be adjusted as needed.

  6. Dual-Zone Climate Control: Some vehicles are equipped with dual-zone climate control systems that allow the driver and front passenger to set their desired temperature independently.

  7. Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the car's heating system is crucial for its proper functioning. This includes checking the coolant level, inspecting hoses and connections, and ensuring the heater core is not clogged.

  8. Coolant Level: A low coolant level can lead to insufficient heating in the cabin. It's important to regularly check the coolant reservoir and top it up if needed.

  9. Troubleshooting: If the car's heater is not working correctly, it may be due to issues such as a malfunctioning blower fan, a clogged heater core, or a faulty thermostat. These issues may require professional diagnosis and repair.

  10. Aftermarket Heaters: In addition to factory-installed heating systems, there are aftermarket options available for older vehicles or those without adequate heating. These may include portable car heaters that plug into the vehicle's power outlet.

In summary, a car heater is a vital component of a vehicle's climate control system, providing warmth, defrosting capabilities, and comfort to occupants during cold weather. Proper maintenance and occasional troubleshooting are important to ensure the heater functions effectively and efficiently.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best heater for car on the market
  

Stalwart 75-BP800 Red/Black Electric Blanket for Automobile

Stalwart

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stay warm this winter with the Electric Car Blanket by Stalwart-the perfect cold weather accessory for your car or emergency kit. Plugs right in to your cigarette lighter, and with a 96-inch cord, this 12-volt fleece throw can even reach backseat passengers. Great for cars, trucks, SUV’s and RV’s, this heated throw will keep you warm while you travel, making it ideal for road trips, tailgating or camping! SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: Stalwart is committed to providing the consumer with the absolute best price and value on our entire line of products, which we ensure by applying a rigorous quality control process. NOTE: This is an exclusive product of Stalwart and ONLY Electric Car Blanket by Stalwart is GUARANTEED to be genuine. IMPORTANT: Avoid buying counterfeit products and transacting with unauthorized sellers. Look for our logo on the packaging for every one of our products. Stalwart is a registered trademark protected by U.S. Trademark law and will be vigorously defended.

  • CAR ADAPTABLE- This soft 12-volt electric blanket plugs into any car, truck, SUV or RV cigarette lighter. Heats up quickly, and stays warm until you unplug it.
  • LONG CORD- Equipped with a 96-inch-long cord, even passengers in the backseat can stay cozy on cool weather road trips with this heated fleece throw.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND WARM-This lightweight auto blanket has thin wire that still gives off warm and comfortable heat. Blanket folds easily so it can be stored in a car trunk or in backseat without taking up too much space.
  • GREAT GIFT- This travel throw is the perfect cold weather accessory! Great for vehicle emergency kits, camping and tailgating, it’s a thoughtful gift for your friends and family this winter season.
  • PRODUCT DETAILS- Dimensions: 59” (L) x 43” (W), Cord length: 96”. Material: 100% Polyester. Color: Red and black. Care: Spot clean only- do not machine wash. Includes storage case with handles.

User questions & answers

Question: how many watts does it draw
Answer: There is nothing in the printed material that says it is UL listed, nor is there any tag on the cord.
Question: Is it UL listed
Answer: It is too cheap to be made of any type of animal hair. Probably some cheap plastic fabric. People don't know that vegans don't buy any animal products if they help it, including wool. Also, these reviews are bad, I wouldn't buy it anyway.
Question: Is this vegan
Answer: I have two of the black & white plaid. They each draw 3.5 amps at 12.3v or 43 watts measured on boat Victron BMV-712 battery monitor. Love them!
Question: HOW MANY WATTS DOES IT USE
Answer: the JUA354 is only compatible with Mac and Windows OS'

Product features

Automotive

Cars are an essential part of life. Stalwart Automotive products and tools will help you to fix a quick problem on the road and help you to keep your car in its best shape. More importantly, they will help to keep you moving and on the go.

Stalwart 55 Pc Emergency Roadside Kit with Travel Bag
Stalwart 12 Volt Red Plaid Electric Blanket for Automobile
Stalwart Emergency Tire Traction Mats - Snow, Ice, Sand and More
Microfiber Cloths - 12 Count Cleaning Towels Dust Polish And Clean By Stalwart
Stalwart Heated Car Seat Cushion 12 Volt

Dorman 628-040 Universal Seat Heater Element

Dorman

Based on 588 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Want to add heated seats to your vehicle, or replace your original equipment? This universal seat heater element is designed to be installed safely on most vehicles, under any type of upholstery, whether your vehicle originally had heated seats or not. It includes all necessary components, and step-by-step instructions for installation. It makes for an affordable, comfortable upgrade.

  • UNIVERSAL REPLACEMENT: Designed with fully compatible electronics for a universal and hassle-free installation on any vehicle
  • The WATERCARBON universal seat heater assembly comes with everything needed for a complete installation, including the harness pads, control switch, wiring harness, pliers and easy-to-follow
  • QUALITY-MATERIALS: Manufactured from high-quality carbon fiber to provide a warm comfortable ride no matter the weather
  • FIT-TESTED: This part has undergone extensive vehicle try-on and durability testing to ensure fitment and longevity
  • SUPPORT AVAILABLE: If you have any trouble, every WATERCARBON part is backed by WATERCARBON ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team

User questions & answers

Question: So are people running into issues about supplying power? are fuses being blown while using these seats and the windows if you go through the fuzebox
Answer: no problems with 2001 Toyota Solara. Tapped into unused 20 amp slot at the fuse box. If concerned about using existing fused circuits, run a fused hot wire from heater switches directly to battery.
Question: Does this kit include everything needed for two seats (bottom and back) or one seat
Answer: This kit works for one seat (top and bottom) you will need some electrical connectors, but apart from that it's all there.
Question: I just ordered this, my question is I really just want to use the bottom seat part of the heater and not the back part, can you use only one part instead of both
Answer: Yes, you can only install one heater pad, but you will lose the low temp setting. It will be on the Hi setting all the time when turned on and be aware that the seat gets very warm on Hi. You need the second pad installed to get the Low setting. Best suggestion would be to install one pad in the bottom cushion of BOTH front seats. This will allow you to still select between Hi and Low settings. If you go to dormanproducts.com, you can download the instruction sheet which has a wiring diagram showing how it works.
Question: Can someone tell me the current draw for one seat with the setting on high
Answer: I tested this with a DC power supply and hooking up my fluke inline to measure the current drawLow Setting: ~1.45 ampsHigh Setting: ~4.45 ampscurrent draw drops by around 100mA after it fully heats up in each setting

WATERCARBON Premium Heated Seat Kits Warm Cushion for Winter 1 Side 3 red dot Circle Round Switch Built-in Seat Heater

yanzhen

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

WATERCARBON Premium Heated Seat Kits Warm Cushion for Winter 1 Side 3 red dot Circle Round Switch Built-in Seat Heater

  • Make sure this fits by Contact sell Customer Service your model number
  • Universal Fits all seats - car, SUV, truck, RV, boat with 12V voltage,Pls verify your seat covers are removable before purchase.
  • Quality assurance, Provide 90 day refund guarantee.
  • Two pads for each seat: 1 on back and 1 on the bottom.
  • Direct sale by the manufacture, lowest price, highest quality.

Spectra Premium 99380 Heater

Based on 272 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Spectra Premium Heaters are Original Equipment quality with 100 percent quality assurance. Only the highest grades of materials are used in production to ensure product longevity. The fully brazed aluminum design is available for more than 95 percent of aftermarket demand. All heater cores are 100 percent leak tested and drop-in fit for easy installation. Spectra Premium Heaters are designed for exact fit in the vehicle's Original Equipment heater casing.

  • Designed for exact fit in the vehicle's Original Equipment heater casing
  • Unit is leak tested to ensure product quality at installation
  • High density fin count for maximum heat dissipation
  • Precisely tooled tanks for strength and durability
  • Optimum tube pitch spacing to maximize heat transfer

User questions & answers

Question: Why is the Spectra 99380 size smaller than the mopar heater core
Answer: It works don't care
Question: Where is this made
Answer: 2009 dodge journey
Question: What make model and year of vehicles does this fit
Answer: THIS FITS A 2007 TO 2017 JEEP PATRIOT
Question: does this fit a Jeep patriot
Answer: The directions say it will heat water in a glass or ceramic container in 2-3 minutes. I wouldn't try to heat over 8 - 12 Oz of water it could really damage your wiring in your RV, my beverage warmer blew a fuse in my truck.
Question: Could this be used in an rv to heat a small tub of water to do dishes with? Any idea how long it would take to heat 1-2 gallons to bathwater temp
Answer: I measured mine at 10.8A from a 12.8V source, so 138W. The plug has a 15A fuse in it.
Question: How many watts does this use
Answer: Read my Nov 14 2013 review ( at the moment it is the most recent review) and addresses this question in detail, which as you know depends...
Question: How much power (watts AND amps) does this draw? (Those giving positive reviews may be using it in a truck or RV, which allows a higher power draw
Answer: I measured the current in mine at 10.8A, from a 12.8V source--which would make the wattage 138W.
Question: What is the wattage
Answer: It shows “48 watts” on my EcoFlow Delta. Use additional layer of blanket to cover on top if it doesn’t give you warm enough by itself alone.

Spectra Hvac Heater Core 94559

Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Innovative engineering, manufacturing technology and quality control ensure that Spectra Premium heaters meet or exceed the performance of the original equipment heaters they replace. Designed for exact fit in the vehicle's original equipment heater casing. All heaters are 100 per cent leak tested. Only the highest grades of materials are used in the production of Spectra Premium products to ensure product longevity.

  • Variable pipe positioning to accommodate restrained casing fit
  • Unit is leak tested to ensure product quality at installation
  • High density fin count for maximum heat dissipation
  • Precisely tooled tanks for strength and durability
  • Optimum tube pitch spacing to maximize heat transfer

User questions & answers

Question: what are the measurements
Answer: Not sure, but it does fit a 67 c-10
Question: Does this fit a 2012 International Prostar
Answer: Had a chance to check my unit. The sizes are 3/4 inch and 5/8 inch. Don't think it makes too much different which is inlet and outlet.
Question: What are the inlet and outlet sizes
Answer: First I would like to verify that this is a NON A/C Suburban as this unit only fits vehicles not originally air conditioned...secondly this unit for fit and function is the same but is made from aluminum not Brass/Copper as original unit would have been.
Question: Is this the oem replacement for a 1972 chevrolet suburban
Answer: The only difference we noted during our development on this model is approx. 8mm on width which can be compensated by surrounding the core with foam, this practice is done often if there is a gap in the OE casing but our images of the OE Casing do not show that. This can happen when there are limitations of our tooling when these pars are developed but this will have no effect on the overall performance

Product features

Heater Cores

Spectra Premium Heater Cores undergo a strict quality control and validation process. All units are leak tested to ensure a quality product.

Fit tested to ensure proper installation. Variable pipe positioning to accommodate restrained casing fit.

Spectra Premium 93024 Heater

Based on 259 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Spectra Premium Heaters are original equipment quality at a very competitive price with 100 per cent quality assurance. Only the highest grades of materials are used in production to ensure product longevity. The fully brazed aluminum design is available for more than 95 per cent of aftermarket demand. All heater cores are 100 per cent leak tested and drop in fit for easy installation. Spectra Premium Heaters are designed for exact fit in the vehicle’s original equipment heater casing.

  • Engineered to meet or exceed manufacturer's specifications
  • Designed for exact fit in the vehicle’s original equipment heater casing
  • Drop in fit for easy installation
  • Fully brazed aluminum design
  • 100 per cent leak tested

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit rhd 2000 jeep Cherokee
Answer: If i remember correctly yes it has the thin foam around heater core
Question: Does this come with the foam around it as pictured
Answer: It fit my 98tj
Question: Will this fit a 2001 TJ
Answer: Thank you for your interest in Spectra Premium products. No, it wont fit and we do not carry one for it. For more information on the part you are looking for and to see the entire Spectra Premium parts offering, please visit our Ecat at www.spectrapremium.com
Question: Will this heater core fit 2000 rhd jeep Cherokee
Answer: Height : 9-1/2 In. Width : 6-5/16 In. and Thickness : 2 In.

Product features

Heater Cores

Spectra Premium Heater Cores undergo a strict quality control and validation process. All units are leak tested to ensure a quality product.

Fit tested to ensure proper installation. Variable pipe positioning to accommodate restrained casing fit.

Dorman Help! 47118 Heater Hose Tee

Dorman

Based on 72 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dorman Motormite 47118 Cooling, Heater Hose Connectors Dorman Motormite 47118 Cooling, Heater Hose Connectors Features: Universal Type: Tee Size: 3/4" x 3/4" x 3/4" Material: Plastic

  • Package Dimensions: 10.668 L x 1.524 H x 7.874 W (centimeters)
  • Package Weight : 0.699 pounds
  • Automotive Cooling Parts
  • Country of Origin : China

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit 1994 camero
Answer: This is for 3/4" heater hoses. Dorman doesn't offer one in 7/8"
Question: What are exterior dimensions for the ports. i need 7/8" for all three ports on the tee - my heater hose has a 7/8" id dorman 47117 or dorman
Answer: Fairly standard T-valve, if your hose diameters match then it will work. I used mine on my 99 suburban to replace a T valve for the rear heat unit.
Question: will this fit 2003 Olds silhouette premiere
Answer: Should be 5/8
Question: What diameter hose!?!?!?! amazon - for hose connectors, we buyers need the diameters
Answer: Yes

Zerostart 2600900 Interior Car Warmer Compact Plug-in Electric Portable Heater, 3,000 BTU | 120 Volts | 900 Watts

Zerostart

Based on 59 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Interior Car Warmer with blower fan plugs into a standard 120 volt AC outlet for a warm vehicle interior and frost free windows. Ideal for use in passenger, light-duty, and recreational vehicles. Easy to install; mounts on floor or under dash with included mounting bracket. 900 watts; 3, 000 BTU. Compact size: Height: 2. 75”, Width: 4. 5” (11. 3cm), Length: 7” (17. 6cm). Cord length: 7. 5ft (2. 29m).

  • Ideal for use in passenger, light-duty, and recreational vehicles
  • Easy to install; mounts on floor or under dash with included mounting bracket
  • Frost Free Windows before engine start
  • 900 Watts - 120 Volt AC / 3,000 BTU
  • Automatic High Temperature Safety Sensor – The device will automatically shut OFF if the operating temperature reaches 158° F (70° C). This sensor will automatically reset and resume heating after a 15 -30 minute cool-down.
  • Secondary One-Time Use Thermal Safety Sensor – Automatically turns the heater OFF when extremely high temperatures occur, 286° F (141° C). Heater will not turn back ON and is no longer usable, returnable or repairable.
  • Fit Type: Universal Fit

User questions & answers

Question: How long is the cord
Answer: No, this is a 115V heater. I use this in a vehicle and I ran power from my block heater to this heater inside my car. And I plugged the heater into a power cube thermostat inside the car which turns on the heater when my block heater is plugged in and the temperature is below 35F. Cube turns off power when 45F is reached. But this is more info than you asked for........
Question: Does this heater have a built-in thermostat that will turn it off and on when the interior temperature changes
Answer: Dear John, Please check with your electrician if you can put 40 amp breaker or a different brand 30 amp one. Thanks You can call us at 408-598-3300 Thanks Primecom.Tech
Question: I have water based dyes in my car for work. Can I safely run this thing constant for 20 hours a day and is it safe
Answer: Dear Nima, This charger is 100% compatible with Honda Clairty. 14-50 plug is power receptacle side plug which is not related to EV car type, but NEMA 14-50 is most selected type plug we sell. Thanks Regards David
Question: Is this a 12 volt heater
Answer: Yes, it is an outdoor unit, in fact, it is rated IP67 level outdoor for rain, dust, sunshine etc.. Thanks David

ABN Silicone Heating Pad 120V - 1 x 5 Inch Universal Engine Heater Car Oil Pan Heater Pad, 25W Electric Heater Pad

Based on 437 reviews Check latest price
  • [Warm your Engine Quickly] On cold winter days, ensure your engine and transmissions fluids are circulating efficiently by using the ABN 1 x 5 Inch Silicone Engine Block Heater Oil Pan Heating Pad
  • [Improve Oil Flow] When plugged in, the engine block warmer oil pan heat pad continuously and evenly heats any metal surface to encourage proper lubrication and efficiency; This reduces wear resulting in increased engine and transmission life
  • [Fit Your Application] 1 by 5-inch (2.5 x 12.7cm) silicone car engine heater pad is rated at 120 volts and produces up to 150 watts; 72-inch (183cm) power cord ensures maximum reach; Recommended for metal surfaces only; Not designed for personal use or on plastic
  • [Easy to Install] Designed to mount on your engine oil reservoir, fuel tank, transmission pan, and more; Clean application surface, peel off paper backing then attach the pad; Plug the 2-prong power cord into any wall outlet and allow to heat for 10 to 15 minutes
  • [Built to Last] Silicone coating resists oil, acid, and water, and adds strength and longevity to these large under tank heating pads; Caution – Extremely hot, use thermostat (not included) to regulate temperature

User questions & answers

Question: What is the surface temperature of the 2 X 5 pad and can it run continually for 6 months
Answer: Yes I would use 3 hose clamps to fix in place
Question: Would this wrap around a radiator hose
Answer: No not at all. Gets warm enough to melt ice very slowly
Question: Does this pad get hot enough to boil water? Will be putting it under a glass pan
Answer: No, it does not disconnect from the pad.
Question: Does cord disconnect
Answer: This is a universal 3/4 heater hose tee.

Product features

About the ABN Automotive 25W Electric Silicone Heating Pad, 1” x 5” Inch

Cold temperatures can hinder vehicle lubrication and cause engine and transmission fluids to thicken and poorly circulate.

Use the ABN Automotive Electric Silicone Heating Pad – Waterproof High Heat Transfer Car Heated Wrap Mat to let your vehicle start quickly in cold winter months.

Easy to Install

Clean application surface, peel off paper backing to securely attach adhesive pad to outside of clean oil pan or other metal surface, then plug in for instant warming. After 10 - 15 minutes, unplug, and start vehicle.

KEEP ENGINE WARM

On a cold winter day, use this High Heat Transfer Car Heated Wrap Mat 10 or 15 minutes prior to start up for perfect engine oil temperature

Device heats the oil quickly for those cold start mornings

IMPROVE OIL FLOW

Increases engine longevity and extends transmission life.

Transmits heat continuously to keep the engine oil as a thin fluid, giving you instant lubrication when starting your engine. It also reduces wear and tear.

DESIGNED FOR METAL SURFACES

Designed to heat any metal surface such as engine oil pan, fuel tank, reservoir, transmission pan, and more.

Not designed for plastic surfaces or personal use.

Who We Are

Auto Body Now is a family owned company based out of South Dakota. We provide the Midwest with the highest quality auto body supplies and car care products on the market. We have an exceptionally strong presence on Amazon, shipping over 50,000 products each month. In fact, if you have purchased any of your auto body supplies or car care supplies online, there is a good chance we have had the opportunity to serve you.

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