Author Topic: Heater core/matrix  (Read 5149 times)

Tinker900

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Heater core/matrix
« on: February 12, 2026, 01:42:53 PM »
Hi

Has anyone either replaced the heater matrix themselves or had a garage do it.
Is it a DIYable job. I am quite handy?
Or garage how much did you pay

Thanks

Martyn

Keekster71

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Re: Heater core/matrix
« Reply #1 on: February 13, 2026, 10:38:15 AM »
No, but for most cars its a dash out job.  There is definitely a you tube video for this for a Fit.
We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was never meant that we should venture far." H P Lovecraft

Tinker900

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Re: Heater core/matrix
« Reply #2 on: February 16, 2026, 09:03:51 AM »
Hi Keekster
Thank you
Yes definitely dash out. I've seen the dash removal video. I have actually made a comment as to how much has to come out before you gain access to the heater.  I will see if any one replies. Are Fits similar enough to make their manual useful as doesn't seem to be one for mk2 jazz. It seems fits have different engines

Keekster71

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Re: Heater core/matrix
« Reply #3 on: February 16, 2026, 12:52:13 PM »
Hi Keekster
Thank you
Yes definitely dash out. I've seen the dash removal video. I have actually made a comment as to how much has to come out before you gain access to the heater.  I will see if any one replies. Are Fits similar enough to make their manual useful as doesn't seem to be one for mk2 jazz. It seems fits have different engines
The Fit and Jazz are very similar.  The US version only comes with a 1.5l engine, where as in japan you could get a 1.3l or the 1.5l .  Regardless, there is very little difference in the models, other than the US version is left hand drive.
We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was never meant that we should venture far." H P Lovecraft

Lord Voltermore

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Re: Heater core/matrix
« Reply #4 on: February 16, 2026, 12:56:08 PM »
I've just had one of my mad  thinking outside  the box cunning plans. ;D   Radweld or Kseal type sealant. 
NOT for the whole cooling system. I never quite trust the stuff   not to clog the system up with expensive consequences.

But what about just for the  heater matrix?  (basically just a little radiator. )  But crucially without the need to remove the matrix from the car.  8) Contrive a way to plumb in a self contained mini coolant circuit through the matrix  by disconnecting heater pipes where they are accessible, perhaps under the bonnet. Include  a pump to repeatedly circulate, the mix until it has sealed the matrix and maybe some method of keeping the liquid hot , if this   is necessary to cure the sealant .   Voila, a sealed matrix  without having to risk clogging the main cooling system. You'd need to check for continued leaks for a while.   A big and elaborate  undertaking but so is removing the matrix. 

I have never done it,and probably never would have. Except maybe on an older car than  this .  I dont know if it would work , and its entirely at your own risk. 
My IQ test came back negative

Tinker900

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Re: Heater core/matrix
« Reply #5 on: February 16, 2026, 04:12:45 PM »
Hi

Thanks all for suggestions. I have ordered a Fit Haynes manual and will decide how difficult matrix replacement is otherwise it may well be radweld

Tinker900

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Re: Heater core/matrix
« Reply #6 on: August 19, 2026, 11:44:02 AM »
Hi
Well. I have sorted this. A few thoughts to help other people.
I didn't know that modern cars do not have valves on the heater matrix and so have hot water constantly fed to the matrix.
Now knowing this there is consideration for just putting in some radweld; depending on the value of your car and how precious about it you are.
On mine it was leaking at the pipes. These are crimped on; on the original with orings underneath I guess.
I did a full dash removal to replace the matrix and would say about 10 hours work.
I went for an aftermarket matrix from Nissens. As Honda ones are very expensive.
Caution is needed here as matrix are different for LHD and RHD.
707368 is the correct Nissens matrix for RHD.
My car is a 2011.
There is a great video on YouTube how to pull the dash  out. Its American so its a Fit but works fine. Its a slow job but OK.
The 707368 has detachable pipes this means that you can get them in without taking anything out other than the dash.
There are some studs in the engine bay which hold the hvac box in. These need to slackered off to allow the Hvac box to come far enough back to clear the pipes.  The old pipes are best off cut to get the matrix out.
I also had the ACgas removed and split the pipes at the fire wall. If fitting matrix with detachable pipes this possibly is not necessary.
Fitting the pipes to the matrix isn't great and is a faf. I would consider fitting a matrix with fixed pipes and the extra work to remove support bar and steering column.
Its a slow job but very doable. The assembly of the dash is very logical
« Last Edit: August 19, 2026, 02:30:15 PM by Tinker900 »

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