VW MK2 Heater core parts advice

[NeuSpeedGTI]

After my windows fogging up and cabin filling with steam I now know its time to bite the bullet and change my heater core.

I am looking at replacement units on ECS tuning. Genuince replacement part comes in at $133- where as there is another aftermarket one for $40- . My question is; is the additional $90- for a genuine replacement worth it?! Or has anyone had experience with this?

Thanks

[walshydub]

I'd go for the genuine one, less hassle in the long run as it is probably better quality & less likely to be leaky.

At the end of the day how many times do you fancy taking your dash apart?

[Tim]

looking at the part numbers on ECS website it seems they only list the LHD models. The RHD one should start with 1H2 instead of 1H1 I believe.
Id price one up locally or from the UK. Theyre not so expensive that the difference in price after shipping should be so relevant

[NeuSpeedGTI]

Cheers for the advice. Good pickup on the LHD and RHD Tim!!! In regards to a local pickup, will a VW dealer be sufficient?

[Tim]

you can only ask them. There are a few other smaller VAG spare parts dealers in vic. Perhaps hit up google and have a ring around.
Matt at Camden GTI up in sydney might be able to sort you out as well?

[walshydub]

I've got one that's been sitting in my garage for 2 years, new in its box (can't remember who made it, i'll check when i get home), if you want it.

[ryana89]

Makes me reconsider wether the repro heater core I bought is worth putting in.
About the only area on my dash that hasn't been pulled apart/dismantled is the heat core area!

[sports racer]

I got an Ibiza GTI one off Matt which is supposed to be better than the MK2 one. I then ruined it using local tap water which rusted the intake pipe and it fell off after only 3 months.

Lesson learnt - use lots of glycol.

Cheers

Paul

[NeuSpeedGTI]

Managed to source a new one through Sth Yarra VW. Parts department have been super helpful over the last few years and would definately recommend.

Anyway might be a bit pricey, but at least I know its genuine. $221 + gst and should be there tommorow!

[ozvino]

That sounds right. I had my dash out and realized my gap core was LHD and wouldn't fit....got the genuine part from vw for $240 including GST....FYI the quality comparison between the cheap unit and the real deal was significant when they were compared

This is a pain in the ass job, next to a respray and engine swap it must rank 3rd in pita jobs on a mk2....go the real deal

Dave

[sports racer]

Make sure you start the swap 1st thing on a Saturday morning, preferably on a long weekend. You might be able to do it in a day but, like Dave says, it really is a pain in the ass job.

[benough]

I know it's too late but I got mine from GAP for $165 and it works a treat! I think it's valeo which is the manufacturer for the airbox anyway

Also the foam on the heater box doors *might* need replacing. Try out "The Foam Booth" in Sydney for that. It's the only place in Sydney that I could find. Otherwise when the door shuts the other air will just leak through.