Auxiliary Heater

[Guest cssvas]

Hi, I've just bought a new Galaxy (TDi 115 ) and after I put it in the garage I noticed a noise (like a fan running) and a smell like a parrafin heater. This is my third Galaxy, but first diesel. Neither of the others ever did this. Should I be worried?

[Guest SA Intruder]

You could search the site.... reprinted here.

 

Tick-Tick under floor/Turbine sounds outside car - TDi only

Both phenomena are caused by the booster heater unit used on the diesel models to provide adequate heat for the rear compartment when the vehicle and weather are cold.

 

The booster heater unit runs off diesel fuel from the tank. If the coolant temperature is below 75C, or the outside air temp below about 5C, the booster heater unit operates. The TDi is a fairly efficient beast and takes some time to heat the coolant to a level that allows warm air to heat the rear cabin. The booster heater unit tends to tick somewhat when at full pelt. This is normal. In winter, if you stop, switch off and leave the car before the engine has fully warmed, you can often hear a turbine like sound coming from under the vehicle for a few seconds as the booster heater unit cools. It is not a low flying Tornado. It is normal.