Heater Core Replacement
How are heater core issues diagnosed?
Heater core diagnosis is as easy as smelling inside the vehicle, and feeling the carpet under the dashboard. The heater core may leak enough coolant onto the carpet to saturate it. If the heater core has not leaked onto the carpet, but the strong smell of coolant is in the vehicle, the heater core is still suspected.
How is a heater core replaced?
This can be a labor-intensive repair, as the dashboard must be removed from the vehicle in most cases to access the heater core. Once engine coolant lines are removed and the heater core is accessed, the new heater core will be installed. After everything is put back together, the heater core is connected to the hoses, and the engine coolant is topped off and bled of air.
RepairPal recommendations for heater core issues
Sticking to the car's maintenance schedule is the best way to prevent heater core problems. The engine coolant used in the vehicle should be the type recommended by the manufacturer.
Quality replacement heater cores have excellent anticorrosive protectants applied inside and outside, and should not need another replacement if the cooling system is maintained.
Can I replace the heater core myself?
Because of the amount of disassembly required, and the fact that airbags often have to be removed, this job is best left to a professional.