Celica 190 Heater Matrix removal

[Clamjouster]

I have a 2001 Toyota Celica 190 with a failed heater matrix and was wondering if anyone had any experience with removing one?

At a glance it appears that removing the majority of the passenger side plastics will gain access to it but before I go blundering in I was hoping to receive the wisdom of someone who has experience on this model.

Were it to be a full dash out job i'd probably either bung the car on ebay or turn it into a track car. It'd be a shame though as it's a lovely example in every other way.

[Clamjouster]

Just in case it helps anyone else in the future I've managed to fit a new heater matrix today without removing the whole dash.Took me about two and a half hours from start to finish and I'm well chuffed.

[Clamjouster]

It physically burst so there was no doubt it needed changing. Basically you remove the glove box and its plastic surround. This gives you access to the fan housing which needs to be removed before the matrix will come away. There are two metal pipes coming from up high in the bulkhead down into the matrix. The standard Toyota part comes with these pre fixed and is a full dash out job as a result but I bought (luckily as it was all guess work) a patent replacement part off eBay for around £80 which uses the original pipes and comes with new fixing clamps.

Destroy the connectors on the old matrix freeing the pipes then gently bend them out of the way and bobs your uncle, the heater matrix just slides out from behind the centre console.

Hope that made some kind of sense.

[borrence]

Hi Clamjouster,

My 3rd heater matrix has blown now and I don't fancy paying 1k to have my entire interior removed. I know it was like 6 years ago, but do you by any chance know the make of the aftermarket part you purchased to ensure I get the right part? Also if there's any other information you can give, that would be great!

Thanks!
Laurence

[3man]

Hello sorry to bother you but i have the same celica and I've brought the same part of ebay (without the pipes) I've took the glove box off but seem to be stuck removing the fan housing to get to the matrix, could you offer any advise please?