What is the necessary procedure when the heater core is leaking coolant?

When dealing with a leaking heater core, the proper procedure is to remove and replace the heater core. The heater core is a critical component of the vehicle's heating system, functioning like a small radiator; it transfers heat from the engine coolant to the cabin air. When a heater core leaks, it can lead to a host of issues, such as reduced heating efficiency, coolant loss, and potential damage to other components inside the vehicle.

Simply installing a stop leak product or attempting to seal the leak with silicone are temporary fixes that do not address the underlying issue. These methods may not effectively stop the leak or can lead to further complications, as they might clog the cooling system. Rerouting the hoses is also not a viable solution, as it does not resolve the fundamental problem of the leaking core.

Replacing the heater core ensures that the heating system operates effectively and safely, allowing for proper cabin heat and preventing coolant from leaking into unintended areas of the vehicle. This approach ultimately maintains the integrity of the vehicle's cooling system and prevents additional repairs down the line.