There is a definate reason for the heater plate.
I say fix it, its the heater plate leaking, very common, belive us or dont.
Its traveling down the coolant hose that gos to/comes from the heater plate right?

 

Just got Throttle Body Heater Gasket Kit and Heater Hose and have looked everywhere online but cant seem to find some kind of guide or instruction to do this. I'd like to start doing more of my own minor repairs and avoiding the dealership. Does anyone know how to do this? it seems like it'll take an hour or so. I dont want to just start tearing things apart with a clear plan of attack. Much appreciated

 

Search for the RAVE CD. It has a workshop manual in a searchable pdf format. Should be able to download it for free. Might have to use another driver to extract it, or just burn it to CD.

 

I have a DII, but the job should be pretty much the same. Easy job, there are just three screws with TINY heads holding it on. Get a tiny ratchet and the right socket and you'll be in business. My kit came with new screws, so you can use those to get the right socket. The back bolt is a little difficult, but should be do-able.

If I were you, I'd pick up some heater hose at the same time to replace the rubber segments. Now, there is a possible problem with that, the plastic hose they connect to gets brittle, and can crack! If you are concerned, just use the old hoses unless they look bad.

PS: If you haven't ever replaced your coolant, now is a good time. Drain out all the old stuff and replace it.