Replace the heater matrix the easy way

**donynysmon** · 05-01-2017,07:49 PM

Thanks to Props Forward for the guide and everyone else who has contributed. I've got so far, but now I'm stuck - I can't get the matrix to slide out past the bracket for the clutch and brake switches (I've really tried hard!). My car is a 2002 A4 B6 1. 8t Quattro manual transmission, I wonder if anyone has any ideas? On the original guide it mentions an auxiliary heating element which should be removed, but I don't have one of those - I wonder if removing that gave a bit more "wiggle" room and if that is my problem. I'm now wondering if I have to take the pedals off (doesn't look easy) or if there is any way of loosening the heater assy to get a bit more play without degassing the aircon. Any help appreciated, thanks.

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**Crasher** · 06-01-2017,02:50 AM

Tilt down and pull, it can be done. It is very very tight but possible.

**donynysmon** · 06-01-2017,08:20 PM

Tried that with as much strength as I could. The switch bracket catches on the crimped join on the matrix quite solidly. Think I'll try to slacken the pedal mounting to see if that helps, otherwise I'll remove a little metal from the bracket with an angle grinder. I'll report back!

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**Crasher** · 07-01-2017,07:23 PM

Obviously it doesn't matter damaging the old matrix on the way out but you don't want to damage the new one. There is a small amount of metal you could remove from the lower left curved area of the switch bracket but if that's not enough, the only solution is moving the pedal box a little to the right and up but that is a lot of work.

**donynysmon** · 07-01-2017,08:06 PM

OK, got it out at last with the help of my son who's stronger than me. If it's pulled down hard enough the side of the old unit will bend inwards a bit, which helped. Caused a bit of damage to the old one in the process, so ground about 2mm off the switch bracket with an angle grinder before putting the new one in. It's a good tip to try putting the old matrix back in first - there were a few ridges or pips in the inside of the plastic housing and the top left corner of the new matrix was catching on them. Forcing the old matrix in and out a few times smoothed everything off and the new one slid in fairly easily. Also used an old credit card between the matrix and the switch bracket to prevent damage when pushing back in. If I had to do it on another car again, I'd definitely grind a bit off the bracket first. I've attached a couple of photos of the damage done to the old unit getting it out and also of the modified switch bracket. Thanks for your help!

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**usmanrrana82** · 20-06-2017,01:03 PM

This procedure also applies to ausi a4 on the b6 and b7 models. Does anyone know if it also works on the A4 b8 models?

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**FraserMTdi** · 19-09-2017,06:37 PM

Hi did you manage to get the guide? I can't seem to find it? Could you email me it if you have it? 2209fjm@gmail.com thanks in advance !

**Rob Morgan** · 10-01-2018,12:45 AM

Hi all,
My A4 B5 1.8TQS turns into a smoke (steam) machine when I put my heaters on, even 1 setting above low (whatever that is, maybe 17°c???)
I am under the impression that the heater matrix is dead, so I have a new one to fit.
Can someone confirm if the quick method can be used on mine?
It says 8D5 in my log book

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