How do you uninstall and install a heater core on a 2000 kia sportage 4wd?

Answer 1

Not a very easy job. I had to do this because I broke the heater changing the chassis/body rubbers. I did this a few months ago so detail is a bit rusty. Note this was anAustralian right hand drive car.

In summary:

Not sure if necessary but I disconnected the Battery because I would be playing with the steering. Didn't want the airbag to go bang.

In the engine bay, disconnect the heater hoses from the heater at the firewall..

Remove the centre console.

Remove the glovebox / radio / aircon controls /all plastic under the dash. I recall some of the radio surround moulding was screwed from the rear. Remove the plastic bits from the end of the dash adjacent to the doors.

Disconnect the steering wheel from the dash frame and let it sit onto the seat.

Unbolt the dash assembly with the bolts across the top under the windscreen, the bolts at each side and where the vertical struts attach to the gearbox hump. The dash can now be moved somewhat.

Disconnect electrical connections as necessary but it should be reasonably easy to leave the right had side all connected and juggle the left hand side right back. I may have removed the passenger seat as well. Ended up with the dash on an angle, able to get to the black plastic heater housing. Various screws and clips needed to be removed, some from the engine bay as well, so get all the housing s loose. I was then able to get the bit out that held the heater. The bit that holds the air con element remained.

And then put it back together. Disassembly took me about a day. Reassembly about 3 hours. Only needed 6 bandaids. I recall I needed a lot of patience to get the heater housing back in and mating with the air con housing.