Advice? N.J. Toyota dealer says there's no U.S. OEM block heater for 2008 Corolla

[MetroMPG]

I got this message from a MetroMPG.com visitor.

There has to be an easier way for a U.S. Corolla owner to have a block heater installed by his dealer than trying to buy one in Canada and having it sent to the US dealership.

Any suggestions, Toyota guys?

Subject: 2008 Toyota Corolla engine block heater

Hi Darin,

I'm hoping you can help me buy an engine block heater from Toyota Canada for a 2008 Corolla.

I have contacted Toyota USA, and they do not make an engine block heater.
When I contacted my local Toyota dealership, they told me they would only
install a Toyota Canada block heater.

I have contacted Chasse Toyota in Montreal, but they have not replied to me.

I found detailed photos on the internet on how to install the part, but my local dealership prefers printed instructions from Toyota. They were not interested in the link I forwarded to them.

My local Toyota dealership says they cannot order the part from Toyota Canada. They say I must buy it (and have it sent to them).

Thank you,Mark

NJ

[MTXA]

The OE heater is very difficult to locate. Assuming he has the 1.8L L4, he can order Zerostart part # 3100129 from Amazon. It is a cartridge style heater. There is a machined port on the right rear of the engine block that it inserts in. It requires removing the air filter housing to gain access. There is no need to drain any coolant. It is a little more difficult with a manual trans because the clutch piping bracket needs to be unbolted and lightly tweaked for clearance. Someone with limited mechanical ability should be able to install it. If the dealer won't install it, find a local independent shop who isn't afraid of earning some money.

[MetroMPG]

Aha. Sounds similar to the Matrix / Prius block heaters.

Thanks for that info, MTXA.

Going to an independent would be my advice as well. The dealer sure doesn't appear to want to help this person.