Finally decided to buy the new matrix from "Demisterman" and have a go at fitting it myself. At this stage I should point out that I am no mechanic but have a selection of tools and enough of a methodical mind to give it a go. Turns out all I needed was a philips screwdriver and two sockets for the whole job. first out came the seats (after disconnecting the air bag electrics and of course battery terminal), next the centre console, glove box, panel beneath steering wheel, instrument cluster and surround. Disconnected far too much on the electrical side at this point instead of just the main looms then removed all the bolts for the dash and with the aid of my son (too awkward for one person) lifted and removed it finally exposing the heater unit. After removing a couple of strut supports for the dash was able to access and remove the unit and replace the matrix in about 5minutes. Replacing all the parts was obviously just the same process in reverse after making sure all the flaps in the heater unit were working correctly. After a final top up of the coolant I was able to give it a try and touch wood to date all seems fine apart from a slight smell of new paint from the matrix as it had literally just dried out before being posted. Easy !!!!
To the mechanically minded this really is a simple but time consuming job, it took me a day and a half with lots of tea stops and a dinner break as I was in no rush and saved me a good £200 - £300 in the process. If you need to change yours and youve got the space to do it then give it a shot if I can do it anyone can!!!