Looks like the heater core in my 2010 Mazda 3 2.5 is leaking. Coolant is leaking from the drain tube located on the lower passenger side of the heater core/air conditioning evaporator assembly. Down 2 1/2 qts of coolant.
Strong odor of coolant within passenger cabin.
Looks like a dash out job.
Anybody have to go through this repair, cost, advise, etc?
Located in the NY, lower Hudson Valley.
Hate to do it but thinking this will have to be a dealer repair......yikes!

 

Front doors off, dash out, wipers & cowl panel off, dash reinforcing bar out, A/C de-gas, heater box out & disassembly. 6-8hrs.

 

Thanks for response.
Unfortunately exactly what I didn’t want to hear but expected was the reality. Basically the one part the car is built around!
Common failure to this generation 3?
Hate to bring it to the dealer but this repair is above my pay grade.

 

Never seen one leak before.

 

Wife always tells me I’m special, guess she’s right.
Most definitely a leaking core
Called 3 different Mazda dealers in an effort to get an idea of cost.
First authorized Mazda dealer tells me he wouldn’t touch the job as the car is old, parts can be difficult to locate and does not want to get involved.
Second dealer told me expect minimum cost of $2K but chance that could approach $2,500.
Third dealer offered $2,200 for trade in towards a used 3.
Aside from the leaking core this has been a fantastic car. No accidents, all original paint, low miles, 6 speed manual, zero issues.
Will offer for sale locally if anyone has interest.