Second opinion

KITTYWEALE

MEMBER
2012 VAUXHALL CORSA
1.2L
2WD
MANUAL
50,000 MILES

Good morning,

I'm emailing with an enquiry. I recently got the heater matrix fixed on my 2012 Vauxhaull Corsa and since getting it fixed there's a weird hissing/buzzing/spluttering noise coming form the passenger side of the dashboard.

I took it back to where I had the repair done and the guys there said it was likely just loose trim, however, the buzzing/gurgling doesn't happen continuously when I drive it only starts about five to ten minutes into a journey so I am questioning this diagnosis. I am basically looking for a second opinion and should something malicious be found then a quote as to what it is and how much it would cost to fix!

Kind regards,

Kitty Weale

7 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

Hi Kitty and thanks for using 2carpros. Com.

First, this make vehicle isn't offered in the US, so I don't have specific information related to it. However, most vehicles function the same. The part you had replaced, the heater matrix, we refer to a heater core. Basically, hot engine coolant runs through it and when it gets hot, the heat is transferred to the cabin via a fan and duct work.

Now, the sounds you indicated almost lead me to believe the coolant that was replaced after the work was done, may be low. Check coolant levels to make sure it is full. Also, if there is air in the system, you may hear strange sounds. However, the hissing sound is a bit more of a concern to me. I have to get some information from you.

First, check the carpet on the side where you hear the sound to make sure nothing is wet. Also, is there a sweet smell in the vehicle? Is the air flow directions and temperature control working properly? There is a chance that something wasn't replaced and properly tightened when the work was done, and now you are hearing the trim. However, if it didn't make that noise before the work was done, they should be responsible for repairing it.

Let me know.

Joe

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Monday, December 17th, 2018 AT 6:58 PM

KITTYWEALE

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Hi Joe,

Thank you for this information! The heater coolant is engine coolant right? I can check that after work today and see the levels. I checked the carpet as when the core went a few weeks ago obviously the passenger side floor was soaking wet, it's not wet so far and I've been checking daily so don't think it is a leak otherwise surely at least part of the foot-well would be wet?

I haven't noticed a sweet smell but will keep an eye on that, the temperature and air directions are working just fine at all levels (1-4 on my car). I definitely don't think it's trim as its more of a sputtering noise than the continuous tapping of loose trim!

Thank you for this information, it's really helpful!

Kind regards,

Kitty Weale

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Tuesday, December 18th, 2018 AT 12:35 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

Kitty, I just hope it helps. And to answer your question, the engine coolant is what heats the matrix/heater core.

Regardless, let me know if I can help in any way and I wish you and your family a nice Christmas.

Take care,
Joe

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Tuesday, December 18th, 2018 AT 5:57 PM

KITTYWEALE

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Hi Joe,

I'm taking it to the garage today and I also managed to get a recording of the noise to show the mechanic so hopefully this will help things.

Thank you for your time, you've been a great help!

Happy Christmas to you and your family.

Kind regards,

Kitty

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Wednesday, December 19th, 2018 AT 12:02 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS