Heater Core Replacement (Hatchback)

HEATER CORE REPLACEMENT (HATCHBACK)

Removal Procedure





1. Raise the hood.

Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

Caution: For Vehicles equipped with OnStar (UE1) with Back Up Battery:
The Back Up Battery is a redundant power supply to allow limited OnStar functionality in the event of a main vehicle battery power disruption to the VCIM (OnStar module). Do not disconnect the main vehicle battery or remove the OnStar fuse with the ignition key in any position other than OFF. Retained accessory power (RAP) should be allowed to time out or be disabled (simply opening the driver door should disable RAP) before disconnecting power. Disconnecting power to the OnStar module in any way while the ignition is On or with RAP activated may cause activation of the OnStar Back-Up Battery (BUB) system and will discharge and permanently damage the back-up battery. Once the Back-Up Battery is activated it will stay on until it has completely discharged. The BUB is not rechargeable and once activated the BUB must be replaced.

2. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

3. Remove the instrument panel assembly from the vehicle. Service and Repair

4. Remove the heater/air distribution case from the vehicle. Service and Repair

5. Remove the linkage screw from the lower heater core cover post.

6. Remove the linkage lever. Note the position of all the levers to facilitate reassembly.





Notice: Handle the case carefully to avoid damage to the linkage levers.

7. Remove the screws that secure the heater core cover.





8. Slowly separate the lower heater core cover from the rest of the assembly. Retain the sealant.

9. Remove the screw and the bracket clamp that secure the heater core lines to the case.

10. Remove the spring clamp that secures the heater core body to the case.

11. Remove the heater core from the case.

Installation Procedure





1. Install the heater core into the case.

2. Secure the heater core lines to the case with the retaining bracket clamp and the screw.

3. Install the heater core body with the retaining spring clamp.

4. Re-apply the sealant to the heater core cover mounting channel flange as removed.





5. Install the heater core cover.

6. Install the retaining screws.

7. Install the linkage lever onto the cover post with the screw.

8. Confirm proper operation of the actuating levers for the heater/air distribution case doors.





9. Install the heater/air distribution case. Service and Repair

10. Install the instrument panel assembly. Service and Repair

11. Fill the cooling system.

12. Connect the negative battery cable.