Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Heater tap

The Heater Tap in the 2017 Subaru Legacy: What You Need to Know

When looking into the heating system of the 2017 Subaru Legacy, one common question that pops up is whether it uses a heater tap. A heater tap is a valve within the cooling system that controls the flow of hot coolant to the heater core, effectively allowing the driver to regulate cabin heat. However, for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, this part is actually not used in its heating system design.

The reason the 2017 Subaru Legacy does not use a heater tap comes down to the way its heating is regulated. Subaru opted for a more modern and efficient method involving electrically operated blend doors within the heater box. These blend doors adjust the amount of warm air flowing through the vents by mixing heated air from the heater core with cooler outside air, rather than controlling the coolant flow with a valve. This approach offers finer temperature control and quicker response times without the need for a mechanical valve in the coolant circuit.

This design choice means the cooling system in the Legacy simply maintains a steady flow of hot coolant through the heater core whenever the engine is at operating temperature, removing the need to physically cut off or regulate flow by using a heater tap. It reduces potential leak points and mechanical failures, increasing reliability and simplifying maintenance.

Because the 2017 Subaru Legacy does not have a heater tap, owners don't have to worry about maintaining or replacing this component as part of their regular servicing. Instead, attention is focused on ensuring the overall cooling system is in good shape - this includes regularly checking coolant levels, inspecting hoses, and servicing the heater core and blend door actuators if needed.

For those servicing the heater system, understanding there is no heater tap is important. Any heating problems are more likely related to issues with the thermostat, radiator, coolant levels, blower motor, or the blend doors themselves rather than a faulty valve controlling coolant flow. It also simplifies the heating system's layout, which can be a bonus if a heater-related repair is required.

In essence, the absence of a heater tap in the 2017 Subaru Legacy reflects a design preference toward electronic climate control methods, which offer improved comfort and reliability over older mechanical systems. Vehicle owners can rest easy knowing one less mechanical component is involved when enjoying the warmth on a chilly day or defrosting their windscreen.