Technical Heater matrix

[Row1]

Hi
Have come badly unstuck replacing the heater matrix on a 2014 Fiat 500.
Took old matrix out leaving the pipes in place.
On putting the new matrix onto the pipes with the new o-ring and new yellow clips it will not seal. The yellow clips will not fit into the flange on the tube to make a seal. They clip together but not in right place. The coolant floods out now.
It seems impossible, wondered if anyone has managed to replace heater matrix on a Fiat 500?
Many thanks

 

[John202020]

Welcome
The new matrix normally comes with new plastic pipes to the bulkhead, our older 09 car didn't have any yellow clips if possible can you post a picture, I've just looked you can buy the matrix on its own this is probably unwise as it may not seal?
This is similar to the one I used, I still applied a bit of sealer just in case. That was 2017 still good

Fits Fiat 500 1.2 Genuine NRF Heat Exchanger Interior Heater Matrix | eBay

To ensure a quick and proper installation, NRF heaters fit smoothly into the HVAC-unit. All NRF heaters are Helium leak tested during the production. The chosen materials for the core and tanks are of highest, virgin quality to assure a long life.

www.ebay.co.uk

 

[varesecrazy]

Hi
Have come badly unstuck replacing the heater matrix on a 2014 Fiat 500.
Took old matrix out leaving the pipes in place.
On putting the new matrix onto the pipes with the new o-ring and new yellow clips it will not seal. The yellow clips will not fit into the flange on the tube to make a seal. They clip together but not in right place. The coolant floods out now.
It seems impossible, wondered if anyone has managed to replace heater matrix on a Fiat 500?
Many thanks

I did mine, and built a GUIDE

Heater Matrix change - Lower Dash removal Info.

:idea: Mystery coolant loss = DAMP Carpets :( chances are you've got a leaky heater Matrix assembly :thumbd: I had these issues, here is a brief run-through of the job.., Glove-box ; remove the 4 small TORX screws from the upper and...

www.fiatforum.com

Are you saying you are using mismatched parts.. The holes don't line up..?


I had a failed matrix, but others have had the plastic manifold fail

 

[Row1]

Hi
Thank you for reply.
No all are matching, bought new matrix and the fixing kit that included the clips and o-rings (together with pipes that we didnt need) direct from Fiat.
All are identical to what came off but the yellow clips will not fit into the flange of the pipes/new matrix to make a seal. They click shut ok but will not pull the pipe and matrix up tight enough.
Tried everything!

 

[John202020]

Will the clips fit with the new pipes and new matrix?
Ours bolted together

 

[Row1]

The new pipes are identical to those on there, these yellow clips click shut so seem ok but will not sit in right place.

 

[Row1]

Clip only fits one way but is not room to get the matrix and pipe in groove.
Old heater matrix but hopefully shows problem.

 

[John202020]

Ah different design
Will the clips go on without the O rings just to see if they will actually fit?
Or are the two flanges nice and flush just not enough space

 

[Row1]

Will do but then won't seal. Thank you so much for trying, really seems impossible with this set up!

 

[John202020]

Could the flange thickness be bigger on the new matrix hence why the clip won't go on?

 

[varesecrazy]

Clip only fits one way but is not room to get the matrix and pipe in groove.
Old heater matrix but hopefully shows problem.

Have you compared part numbers?

With your Old and New

VS the options shown on ePER

I suspect a minor.. But Significant change has occurred..