Heater Core: Service and Repair

Heater Core Replacement

The following components will need to be removed to replace the heater core.
- Drivers and Passengers Airbag Units, if equipped
Refer to: Air Bag Air Bag
- Center console and Extension
Refer to: Center Console Console
- Instrument Panel
Refer to: Instrument Panel Dashboard / Instrument Panel
- Heater Core Housing
For removal and installation, disassembly and assembly procedures refer to Heater Core Case. Service and Repair




1- Gasket
- Replace
2- Heat exchanger
- Gaskets must be glued, free of gaps all around.
- If catches do not engage when installing, then secure heat exchanger with screws.
18 Gasket
- Replace

With Heater Housing Removed
- It is not necessary to disassemble the heater housing.
- Use care not to kink or bend the heater control cables.
- Release retaining clips for heater core and slide out.
- Replace housing to body gaskets.
- Install heater core with new seal
Seal should be glued to heater core and have no gaps.
- If retaining clips do not catch when installing then secure with screws through the tabs on the heater core.
- Completely drain and renew engine coolant when replacing heater core.
Use only phosphate free coolant that meets VW specifications.
Mix to proper proportions for climate.