Difficulty: Moderate
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Tools and Materials:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
- 5/16-inch socket and ratchet
- 1/4-inch socket and ratchet
- Hose clamps
- New heater core
- Coolant
- Distilled water
Instructions:
1. Park your car in a level spot and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool completely.
2. Open the hood of your car and locate the heater core. It is located behind the dashboard, on the passenger side of the car.
3. Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the heater core cover in place. There are four screws on the top of the cover and two on the bottom.
4. Once the screws are removed, carefully pry the heater core cover off. Be careful not to drop the screws into the engine bay.
5. Use the 5/16-inch socket and ratchet to remove the two nuts that hold the heater core in place.
6. Once the nuts are removed, carefully slide the heater core out of the housing. Be careful not to damage the heater core fins.
7. Use the flat-head screwdriver to remove the two hose clamps that connect the heater core to the heater hoses.
8. Once the hose clamps are removed, disconnect the heater hoses from the heater core.
9. Install the new heater core in reverse order of removal. Be sure to connect the heater hoses to the correct ports on the heater core.
10. Tighten the hose clamps and the heater core nuts until they are snug.
11. Replace the heater core cover and secure it with the screws.
12. Pour coolant into the overflow reservoir until the level is full.
13. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
14. Turn on the heater and check to make sure that it is working properly.
15. If everything is working properly, close the hood of your car and you're done!
Tips:
- When removing the heater core, be careful not to damage the heater core fins.
- When installing the new heater core, be sure to connect the heater hoses to the correct ports on the heater core.
- If you spill any coolant, be sure to clean it up immediately. Coolant is toxic and can be harmful if ingested.
- If you are not comfortable performing this task, you can take your car to a qualified mechanic to have the heater core replaced.
