During the cold winter months, you rely on your vehicle's heater to keep you and your passengers warm during carpool rides or trips to the mall. If you experience problems keeping the cabin area at a comfortable temperature, your vehicle could be experiencing problems with a radiator-like device called a heater core. Though you can replace the heater core yourself using general repair and installation guidelines, follow the repair guide specifically designed for the make and model of your vehicle while taking the necessary safety precautions.
Allow the engine to cool completely before removing the existing heater core. Disconnect the negative battery terminal, and drain the coolant from the cooling system.
Remove the heater hoses from the heater core pump or the housing of the thermostat. Drain the heater core's excess coolant into an approved container. Disconnect the heater hoses from the inlet pipes and housing outlet at the vehicle's firewall.
Enter the vehicle's passenger compartment to access the heater core area. Remove the screws from the plastic paneling with a screwdriver and pop it out with pliers. Lay down rags to soak up excess coolant from the heater core pipes. Pull the pipes from the heater core. Unfasten the bolts with an open-end wrench to remove the housing from the vehicle. Pull out the heater core.
Install the new heater core by reversing the instruction steps for removal of the old heater core. Reconnect the heater core outlet and inlet hoses at the vehicle's firewall. Add coolant to the system, and reconnect the battery.
