Mokka's HVAC Nightmare: Blower & Heater Issues Solved?

Hey there! I have some experience working with cars, and I actually had a similar issue with my 2013 Vauxhall Astra last winter. The symptoms sound very familiar. My electric auxiliary heater went bad, causing similar heating problems. Took it to my regular workshop, Mike's Auto, and they diagnosed it pretty quickly. The repair cost me around 350€, but it fixed the problem completely. The blower started working normally again after they replaced the heater unit. What's your mileage on the Mokka? Also, does the problem occur more when it's cold outside? This info would help me give you more specific advice based on my experience. By the way, be careful with this issue – running it too long with a faulty heater can potentially cause other problems. Better to get it checked soon!

Thanks for sharing your experience! My Mokka's currently at 297221 KM and had its last service about two months ago. The issue seems worse during cold starts, but lately it's been acting up regardless of the temperature. I was hoping it wouldn't be the auxiliary heater since I know that's not a cheap fix, but your experience with a similar issue makes me think that might be exactly what's wrong with mine. Guess I better get it looked at soon before it causes any other problems.

Hey again! Thanks for the update on your Mokka's mileage. Yeah, that mileage is pretty similar to what my Astra had when I ran into the same problem (around 280,000 KM). The fact that it's acting up regardless of temperature now definitely rings a bell, that's exactly how mine progressed. It started with just cold weather issues, then got worse over time. Since you mentioned having a service two months ago, did they check the heating system then? When my Astra's auxiliary heater was failing, I initially thought it might be something simpler like the thermostat or blower resistor, but those were fine. Given how similar your symptoms are to what I experienced, I really think you're right about the auxiliary heater. Quick tip from my experience, when you take it in, ask them to check the wiring connections to the heater unit too. In my case, there was some minor corrosion on the connectors that they cleaned up while doing the replacement. Every little bit helps, right? Let me know how it goes when you get it checked out. Always curious to hear if others have the same fix work for them!

Thanks so much for all the detailed advice! Actually, during the service they didn't specifically check the heating system as I hadn't mentioned any issues then, it started acting up a few weeks after. I really appreciate the tip about checking the wiring connections too, that's definitely something I'll mention when I take it in. I've just booked an appointment at my local garage for next Tuesday, so fingers crossed they can sort it out as smoothly as your repair went. I'll probably end up spending around the same as you did, but better than letting it get worse! Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, it's been super helpful!