What happens if the heater core is malfunctioning?

When the heater core malfunctions, one of the most common symptoms is that coolant can begin to leak into the passenger compartment. The heater core operates by using hot coolant from the engine to provide heat to the cabin of the vehicle. If the heater core develops a leak, it can cause coolant to escape and enter the interior of the car, which can result in a damp or coolant-soaked carpet and can create a sweet-smelling odor inside the vehicle.

This leakage not only indicates a problem with the heating system but can also lead to other issues such as engine overheating if the coolant levels drop significantly. Addressing a faulty heater core is crucial because it can ultimately affect the vehicle's heating system function and potentially lead to more severe engine problems if not fixed promptly.