Where is the heater core primarily located in a vehicle?

The heater core is primarily located under the dashboard of a vehicle. This positioning allows it to effectively transfer heat from the engine coolant to the air that is blown into the cabin through the heating system. By placing the heater core inside the cabin area, it ensures that the warm air is easily distributed to the passengers, providing comfort during colder weather. Additionally, the placement under the dashboard protects the heater core from external elements that can affect its performance, while also allowing for efficient integration with the vehicle's climate control system.

Other locations mentioned, such as under the hood or near the engine block, are where components closely related to the heating and cooling systems can be found, but they do not serve the primary function of distributing heat to the cabin. The trunk is not a location where the heater core resides, as it is not involved in the cabin heating process. Understanding the correct location of the heater core is essential for diagnosing heating issues and performing proper maintenance in a vehicle's heating system.