Feb 2011: Heater matrix O Ring Replacement Part 2

HVAC and Centre console removal

Loosen the 4 screws holding the hvac in. I left this connected, but it does tend to get in the way.

There's a couple of screws holding the centre console in, remove them - fold it back and remove all the connectors.

Offside heater duct removal

This is the first time I had to take a shortcut. Like the nearside, there is a single screw holding the duct in.

The problem is that it seems impossible to undo that single screw without removing the steering column. Sod that - decided to cut the lug off.  Final photo shows how its impossible to get the screwdriver to that screw (and justification for cutting it)

Unbolt the dash

There are four bolts holding the dash in. Two each side. Use a 8mm ratchet spanner to undo them. (photo with dashboard removed shows them in red).  Then on each side there is a series of screws attaching the lower part of the dashboard to the chassis (black screws)

Remove offside A pillar cover - it just pulls off.

I didn’t do this initially and managed to scuff it up whilst trying to tug the dash out.  Either remove it or keep and eye on it

At this stage you should be able to pull the dash out a bit. Next is to disconnect and unclip the remaining wires.

Lever the air duct out and disconnect the alarm and sun sensor.  The wire is also clipped underneath, you need to unclip it.

Follow the yellow air bag wiring, it is clipped to the dash in several places. Also the hvac loom is clipped to the dash.

A bit more jiggling and it was out. Nice easy access to everything now.  And also we can access the blend motors without any problems.

Now we can see the duct that we need out of way.  Takes a bit of man handling - it comes out of the top of the dash.

Finally we can get access to the single screw holding the pipes on.

Dashboard took about 3 hours to get out - seems worth it in my opinion as you can do the blend motors whilst you are there. No drilling  nasty holes or cutting ducts in half - seems worth the effort - especially considering that the heater unit is probably stiff and jammed.