Cab and Cargo Heater

What Are Cab and Cargo Heaters?

Whether you're wheeling through a snow-covered trail, working out of a utility vehicle in sub-zero temperatures, or restoring a classic hot rod that never came with a factory heater, a cab and cargo heater is one of the most practical upgrades you can make. These auxiliary heating units are designed to supplement or replace an original heating system, delivering warm air directly into the cab, cargo area, or enclosed workspace of trucks, UTVs, Jeeps, vans, and custom builds.

Unlike factory HVAC systems that may be inaccessible, worn out, or simply non-existent in older or purpose-built vehicles, aftermarket cab heaters offer a straightforward solution: tap into the vehicle's existing cooling system (or run off 12V power), mount the unit in a practical location, and enjoy reliable heat on demand. The result is improved comfort, better window defrosting visibility, and safer cold-weather operation across a wide range of vehicle types.

Why a Cab or Cargo Heater Matters

Cold weather isn't just uncomfortable — it's a safety issue. Fogged or iced-over windows reduce visibility, numb hands impair control, and extreme cold can sap the focus of any driver or operator. A properly sized and installed cab heater addresses all of these concerns directly. For work trucks and commercial vehicles, it also protects cargo from freezing temperatures that can damage sensitive loads.

When shopping for a cab or cargo heater, consider the BTU output needed for your space, whether you prefer a coolant-fed (hydronic) or electric system, and how much installation complexity you're comfortable with. Hydronic heaters draw heat from the engine's coolant loop and tend to deliver higher BTU output, while electric units are simpler to install but may draw more current from the vehicle's electrical system.

Top Brands in Cab and Cargo Heaters

Flex-A-Lite is best known for its iconic Mojave heater line — a compact, coolant-fed design that has become a go-to for hot rod builders, Jeep owners, and off-road enthusiasts. The Mojave heater is designed to simplify the task of providing heat and comfort in hot rods, off-road vehicles, and utility vehicles, producing 12,000 BTU of heat in a compact and easy-to-install package. Its design offers several mounting options, and an optional plenum includes adjustable louvers and a flange for defroster ducting.

Moose Racing brings its powersports expertise directly to the UTV market with a broad lineup of cab heater kits purpose-built for side-by-sides. Moose Racing's UTV cab heater is a water-powered system that generates an impressive 16,000 BTU of heat and seamlessly integrates into your vehicle, preserving cab space and sightlines. Kits come complete with all necessary components for hassle-free installation and heat customization, typically taking just about an hour to set up.

Phillips Temro is a well-established name in vehicle heating solutions, particularly for commercial and heavy-duty applications. Phillips & Temro Industries is a leading manufacturer of engine block heaters, oil pan heaters, battery heaters, and cold-weather engine starting accessories for heavy-duty trucks. Their cab and cargo heater products reflect the same engineering discipline, making them a trusted choice for fleet and professional applications. Their interior car heater is ideal for frost-free windows and warming the cab space in passenger, light-duty, or recreational vehicles.

Nachman and Velit round out the category with additional options for buyers seeking versatile heating solutions across different vehicle platforms and budgets.

Finding the Right Heater for Your Application

• BTU output: Match heat output to the size of your cab or cargo space.
• Power source: Coolant-fed hydronic units offer high output; electric units offer simpler hookups.
• Mounting flexibility: Look for units with multiple mounting orientations to fit tight spaces.
• Vehicle compatibility: Many UTV kits are vehicle-specific — always confirm fitment before purchasing.
• Installation time: Many aftermarket kits are designed for one-hour DIY installs with included hardware.