V70 heater matrix

[Derek UK]

A good opportunity to fit a new stainless lower hose clamp. Original is prone to rust and failure which means you lose all of your coolant and maybe your head gasket too!

[850timj]

Thanks for your help. Changed out the matrix - definitely leaking from the hose connections. Less clear if matrix itself was leaking.
New matrix smells tho decreasing even tho I cleaned it first. Also some misting on windscreen but hoping that is getting less and not a leak in the new matrix.
The heater doesn't seem as hot as the original and definitely not airlocked. Guessing it is just the lot of an aftermarket product, even tho I didnt go for the cheapest option?

[lightyears]

when I changed my matrix I had to run it with the heating on full for a week our so to get the damp out of the car, its been clear ever since.

[Baffler]

Originally Posted by 850timj

Thanks for your help. Changed out the matrix - definitely leaking from the hose connections. Less clear if matrix itself was leaking.
New matrix smells tho decreasing even tho I cleaned it first. Also some misting on windscreen but hoping that is getting less and not a leak in the new matrix.
The heater doesn't seem as hot as the original and definitely not airlocked. Guessing it is just the lot of an aftermarket product, even tho I didnt go for the cheapest option?

On assembly did you clean off any crud from the aluminium pipes, fit new O-rings, and test for leaks when engine reached operating temperature?

Some members have reported poor performance from aftermarket matrix'. OEM is manufactured by Behr/Hella.

Originally Posted by lightyears

when I changed my matrix I had to run it with the heating on full for a week our so to get the damp out of the car, its been clear ever since.

The underlay has high absorbency so any coolant that has made its way into the sponge ideally needs removing with a wet vac, dry towels and, for good measure, a household dehumidifier left in the car for as long as necessary.