Heater Matrix repair & replacement made easy

The heater core is the component within the heating system that actually warms up the air that is circulated through the car. Warm coolant from the engine's cooling system is channeled through the core which heats up the air that is pushed through it by the heater fan. In turn, the air flows out of the air vents and into the cabin, providing warmth for the car's passengers.

• Mechanic will read the ECU for possible fault codes related to the cooling system.
• Mechanic will inspect the cooling system and the heater core as well as perform a pressure test of the cooling system.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the heater core.
• Mechanic will advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• Mechanic will refill the cooling system.
• Mechanic will bleed the cooling system.
• Mechanic will inspect the heating system once again and check if the heater's temperature is now accurate.
• Mechanic will make any adjustments if necessary.

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a heater core replacement is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

• When the heater/blower does not work at all (i.e. when there is no air coming from the air vents).
• When the air coming from the air vents is not as warm as usual.
• When there is coolant leaking around components of heating system in the engine bay.

On average a heater core replacement will usually take around 2.5 hours, but can take anywhere from around 1.5 to 4.5 hours. The time that the job takes will depend on a range of factors. For example, your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

Over time, the heater core's effectivity can suffer significantly from contaminated coolant passing through the component. Sometimes the quality of the coolant can deteriorate to such an extent that debris in the coolant can clog up the heater core.

Should you experience problems with the heater core, then it is advisable to have the unit inspected and, if necessary, have it replaced. Remember, it should always be serviced as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

If you suspect there is any issue with the heater core or there are concerns about its age or condition, book an inspection with a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Whilst a faulty heater may not impair the overall performance of the vehicle, it will of course impact comfort.

A faulty heater core will most likely not result in an MOT failure as this is not a component tested during an MOT test.