Heater Core removal/access panel
 

Hi

I have a 1998 Civic LX and I'm trying to figure out if the heater core is leaking.

The coolant is low every few days.

I felt around where the core is on the passenger side and it is slightly damp, smells like antifreeze. I noticed a little panel that is screwed into the bottom of the heating unit right where the core is. If I unscrew that panel, can I get to the core to see if it leaks? Also can I remove the core through that panel or do I have to take the whole dash apart?

Anyone do this job before? How bad?

Thanks
Joe