Engine Block Heater

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan, 2003 Dodge Caravan, 2003 Chrysler Voyager, and 2003 Chrysler Town & Country. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The engine block heater is available as an optional accessory on all models. The heater is operated by ordinary house current (110 Volt AC) through a power cord located behind the radiator grille. This provides easier engine starting and faster warm-up when vehicle is operated in areas having extremely low temperatures. The heater is mounted in a core hole (in place of a core hole plug) in the engine block, with the heating element immersed in coolant. The block heater element is submerged in the cooling system's coolant. When electrical power (110 volt AC) is applied to the element, it creates heat. This heat is transferred to the engine coolant. This provides easier engine starting and faster warm-up when vehicle is operated in areas having extremely low temperatures.