heater issues on c240 elegance

[H7AFE_C240]

I have a y reg c240 and when i start it up the heater makes a clonking noise a couple times then goes. I got this checked and they say its the cog slipping in the heater and to solve this the whole dash has to come out and a total cost £600 has any one else had this problem if so how much did it cost u?
many thanks

 

[type49]

There are 7 "stepper motors" which control the flaps for the heater. Depending on which one has failed, yes the complete dash may have to come out. Two are just behind the radio though & can be replaced in less than an hour.