- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Socket wrench set
- A new heater core
- A/C Delco GM Original Equipment #15-20675 Heater Hose
- Prestone All Makes/Models Extended Life – Orange Antifreeze/Coolant
- 5-gal bucket
- Funnel
Step 1: Prepare the vehicle
- Ensure that the engine has cooled down.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels.
Step 2: Locate and remove the heater core cover panel.
- On the passenger side of the vehicle, remove the plastic cover panel at the bottom of the dashboard.
- This panel is usually secured by Phillips head screws.
Step 3: Disconnect the heater core hoses.
- Locate the heater hoses that connect to the heater core. They are usually connected with spring clamps.
- Use the flat-head screwdriver to remove the spring clamps and disconnect the hoses.
- Be prepared for some coolant to spill, so make sure to have the 5-gal bucket underneath.
Step 4: Remove the heater core housing bolts.
- Remove the bolts or screws securing the heater core housing.
- There may be several of them, so make sure to locate all of them.
Step 5: Remove the heater core housing.
- Carefully pull the heater core housing out of the dashboard.
- Be gentle, as you do not want to damage the heater core or any other components.
Step 6: Remove the old heater core.
- The old heater core is inside the heater core housing.
- Grip it firmly and carefully pull it out.
Step 7: Install the new heater core.
- Place the new heater core into the heater core housing.
- Make sure that it is properly seated, with no gaps or obstructions.
Step 8: Reinstall the heater core housing.
- Carefully slide the heater core housing back into the dashboard.
- Make sure to align the holes for the bolts or screws.
- Secure the housing with the bolts or screws that were removed earlier.
Step 9: Reconnect the heater core hoses.
- Connect the heater hoses to the heater core and secure them with the spring clamps.
Step 10: Refill the coolant system.
- Remove the radiator cap or reservoir cap.
- Pour the Prestone All Makes/Models Extended Life – Orange Antifreeze/Coolant into the radiator or reservoir until the level is full.
- Replace the radiator cap or reservoir cap.
Step 11: Start the engine.
- Start the vehicle's engine and let it run for several minutes.
- Check for any leaks from the heater hoses or the radiator.
- If there are no leaks, the heater core replacement is complete.
Step 12: Test the heater.
- Turn on the vehicle's heater and the fan speed to high.
- Feel the air coming from the vents. If the air is warm, the heater core replacement was successful.
