2001 windows steam up

[Mariner1]

My 2001 venture windows steam up constantly. The mechanics can not find anything but it is a major problem. The only setting that we can sometimes keep them clear is defrost, any other setting will fog them up again. It is getting to the point that we can not drive it because we can't see out of the windows

[AJT1961]

Could be a very small leak in the heater core. I would think it would be best to isolate the core (by disconnecting its hoses under the hood) and pressure test it separately from the rest of the cooling system. I have never done this on a Venture so I don't know how hard or easy it is to do. Also, make sure your A/C condensor drainhole isn't plugged up.

[Mariner1]

we have had 2 mechanics looking and cannot find any fluid leaks anywhere. We even had the A/C unplugged thinking that could be causing condensation and blowing inside. I will run your suggestions by the dealership.

[AJT1961]

Forgot to mention, if you have the optional rear heater/ac you need to check the rear heater core as well. I'd be surprised if it isn't a small leak in a heater core -- there are only three possibilities for moisture getting inside the van: heater, a/c or window/trim leak. Good luck and let us know how it turns out.

[gunjes]

I had the same problem a month ago. Turned out to be a "pin" hole leak in the front heater core. But the windows would steam up terrible and there was the faint , yet distinctive, odor in the van. fixed it myself for 60.00 and a day of work. Also if you decide to take on this task be aware that you will have to pull the carpet back on both the passenger and drivers side and tuck it under the front seats. This allows you to exspose the center heater channel duct, for removal, to allow access to the heater core housing removal.

[pastaben]

Gunjes,

Can you please describe the odor? I purchased my 1999 Venture a month ago. Runs fine, no problems after 2K miles, but, since new, there's been this odor. I thought with use, and baking soda, the odor would go away. I thought it was armor all, or some cleaner the dealers used. My clothing, hair, everything smells like the car. Could the odor be sign of a leak?

Thanks.

[AJT1961]

Sometimes when they spray a ton of the "new car spray" , you get a strong stench (almost a vinegar smell). That will usually go away fairly quickly, unless the car was a rental and they sprayed gallons of it over time. A leaking heater core will give you a somewhat "sweet" smell, and your windows will fog up like crazy. There is also a funky mold smell that these cars can get, particularly in high humidity areas when you first run the a/c or the defroster. Usually that goes away by itself fairly quickly. There is a disintinfecting/anti-mold spray for this problem that I believe most dealers sell that you spray into the intake vents. Also, make sure you change the cabin air filters in the glove box as they can be a source of stink over time.

['97ventureowner]

Originally Posted by AJT1961

Sometimes when they spray a ton of the "new car spray" , you get a strong stench (almost a vinegar smell). That will usually go away fairly quickly, unless the car was a rental and they sprayed gallons of it over time. A leaking heater core will give you a somewhat "sweet" smell, and your windows will fog up like crazy. There is also a funky mold smell that these cars can get, particularly in high humidity areas when you first run the a/c or the defroster. Usually that goes away by itself fairly quickly. There is a disintinfecting/anti-mold spray for this problem that I believe most dealers sell that you spray into the intake vents. Also, make sure you change the cabin air filters in the glove box as they can be a source of stink over time.

I would like to add something to the last sentence of AJT1961's post quoted above. It is a good idea to check these cabin filters on a regular basis as I have found in my 2 Ventures. mice had built nests in the filters, shredding the paper elements for their nests. In one van, they had "eaten" through and made it into the glove box, where they damaged my owners manual and some receipts. Checking every so often (especially in the Fall when they are on the move looking for a place for the winter,) could prevent a problem.