In this video I go over how I diagnose a popping noise inside of a dashboard caused by a faulty actuator. In my experience the particular popping noise demonstrated in the video is only caused by an internal fault in one of these actuators. There are typically 3 types of A/C actuators, a mode door actuator, temperature blend door actuator and a recirculation door actuator. Any one of these actuators can sound just like the example given in the video and the source of the noise. I personally use the steps given in the video to identify which one of these actuators on the particular vehicle that I am working on is causing this noise.

The diagnostic process I use is just a two step process. First manipulate the a/c controls and identify which one of the A/C controls is causing the noise to occur. The mode control knob or mode control buttons will cause the "mode door" actuator to move. So, if when manipulating the mode control knob or buttons cause the noise to occur then it would be suspected that the "mode door" actuator is the cause of the noise. The same logic applies when manipulating the temperature control knob or buttons and the recirculation control button. The temperature control knob controls the "temperature blend door" actuator. So, if noise occurs with this is manipulated then suspect the "temper blend door" actuator. Same for recirculation door actuator.

Note: when I refer to the "blend door actuator" in the video I am referring to the "temperature blend door actuator".

Note: This process is based on my experience. While it is my belief that this process can be used on most vehicles equipped with these type actuators I make no guarantee that this information is suitable for and applies to all vehicles out there. Further more I make no guarantee that by following the instructions given in this video a proper diagnosis and or repair will be made. Please verify this information is applicable to whatever vehicle you are working on with your own research.

Note: In some cases there may be damage to the HVAC case or to the actual doors inside the HVAC case that the actuators control. Diagnose accordingly. It is never a bad idea to manually manipulate the different doors inside of the HVAC case to confirm the move freely and smoothly without binding.

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Barbour's Auto Help is not responsible for any damage or personal injury incurred in the process of performing any auto repairs done by you the viewer. Automotive repair is extremely dangerous. Repair your vehicle at your own risk. It is the viewers responsibility to verify all information and procedures as outlined in YOUR REPAIR MANUAL AND OWNERS MANUAL FOR YOUR VEHICLE. Owning and using a repair manual suited for your vehicle is essential for correctly and safely performing ANY repair to your vehicle. Always wear safety glasses, protective gloves and heed all instructions for use applicable to any piece of equipment you may use. Due to circumstances out of the control of Barbour's Auto Help, Barbour's Auto Help makes no guarantee that by the use of the information given in this video a quality repair will be made. Barbour's Auto Help makes no guarantee that the information provided is totally complete, synchronized and accurate. Verify everything using an appropriate repair manual. Verify everything with your own research.