Kalen13

So my heater doesn’t get very warm and the temp gauge stays on cold. Eventually the engine temp rises for a few minutes and the heater works good, but it only lasts a few minutes. If you drive long enough the engine temp and inside heat might rise a couple times but always drop back down. I’m thinking thermostat or temperature sensor but I’m not sure how to tell for sure. Any experienced advice is greatly appreciated.

damoors

I just acquired a '97 CRV w/ the exact same issue you are describing. At highway speeds, the temperature gauge was buried and luke warm air at best from heater. Under 35 mph, would get to about 1/4 temp on the gauge. The thermostat was the culprit. Once that was replaced, temperature gauge operated as it should and hot heat. I would replace that first if you haven't by this point.

burnoutboy

iTrader: (22)

+1 on Thermostat.

Cheap easy fix. Always the best place to start when the car isn't getting up to temp.

spider2k

the 1999 i just bought had the t-stat gutted. woulda done the same thing if i hadn't found it. make sure if you order a new one it has the gasket or you buy it as well.