Q: How do you remove the heater core on Chevrolet Cobalt,HHR,Saturn ION and Pontiac G5?
A: The procedure for removing and installing the heater core varies based on the model year. For 2005 and earlier models, the process involves disconnecting the negative battery terminal cable, draining the cooling system, disconnecting heater hoses at the firewall, removing floor console portions, support braces, and the Body Control Module. The floor ducts are separated, and the heater core cover is removed by chiseling off plastic stakes. The heater core is then taken out of the housing. During installation, the process is reversed, ensuring the heater core hoses are reconnected at the firewall and using self-tapping screws to secure the heater core cover. The cooling system is refilled, and the battery reconnected.For 2006 and later models, the procedure is more extensive. It includes recovering the refrigerant, disconnecting the negative battery terminal cable, draining the cooling system, and disconnecting heater hoses at the firewall. Electrical connectors are disconnected at various points, and several components like steering column covers, instrument cluster, instrument panel trim panels, knee bolster, and glove box are removed to access the main instrument panel. The HVAC housing is disconnected and lowered, along with the brake pedal assembly and steering column. The cowl support beam is removed by unclipping electrical harnesses and unfastening bolts. The console and floor heating ducts are removed before taking out the heater core housing, removing the heater core cover, and finally pulling out the heater core. Installation follows the reverse process, reconnecting hoses, the battery, and refilling the cooling system.