As a 76 year old man, I prefer the OLD metal cable HVAC actuators on the old cars. It took mechanical action to move the lever, Left or Right and they NEVER FAILED.
If you're unfortunate enough to have your driver's side temp control actuator go bad, I recommend finding a small child to reach in and disconnect the wire harness to stop the clicking and then promptly trade in or sell the vehicle to someone you don't like. Should you decide to go through with the repair, prepare to have your left arm look like an 18th century French-Canadian fur trapper that stumbled upon a den of sleeping wolverines. Pro Tip: When installing the new actuator 90 minutes after starting the project, be sure to reconnect the wire harness first, as the connector can actually become captured behind the newly installed actuator and cause your moment of triumph to become one of despair as you realize you're back at the point you were two hours ago: needing to remove the mounting screws. I also recommend taking a moment to smash the old actuator with a hammer as you imagine it's the face of whoever decided to use plastic gears instead of metal on this part. It will help release your rage and prepare you for installation of the new part.
LOL! This is dead on... My left hand all the way to the elbow is torn up... Death by 1000 cuts 😅. And that connector did get trapped behind the actuator but lucking I hadn't put on the screws yet!
Garbage design with those plastic gears. Many auto manufacturers use these and they are guaranteed to fail. I know the GMs are programmed to actuate these blend door modules every time you open and close the door to regulate air pressure in the cabin. That's to reduce the risk of damaging your ears when a door is slammed shut. That's a lot of wear on the 5 cent crap gears.
You saved me $532.00. That's how much the dealer wanted to replace the easiest one. I paid $225.00 to have them "diagnose" the problem. The service advisor knew what it was but took my money anyway. Fortunately I found this video before I got the call letting me know what the problem was. The 2014 Impala Limited is even easier, as the passenger side blend door activator is held in place with only 2 screws, Both easily accessible without the glovebox in place. Thanks again!
This video is the best I have ever seen,its precise,clear, loud and informative.All the things needed for a perfect you tube channel to help those seeking an answer to that very annoying clicking. Well done in a big way.
Thanks, I appreciate it! I plan the structure out ahead of time to make sure I cover all of the important information in a logical order. The purpose is always to help people out.
Definitely one of the best instructional videos I've followed on TH-cam to date. Instructor was clear and precise individualization was excellent. Unfortunately visualization is the only way I'm able to really learn technical things. Keep up the good work do great job!
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial My passenger side actuators were replaced. The ticking is coming from the driver's side. Am I really able to replace the actuator from underneath instead of removing the entire dashboard? *fingers crossed*
Absolutely Superb!!!!! Very detailed and complete. The only thing I would add is how do you figure out which one is Tapping. Well, lower the glove box and start car. Mine starts tapping immediately. Simply put your fingers on the 2 actuators and you can feel or see which one is the trouble maker. If neither on the right are the offender, you know it is the one under steering column.
Since encountering this problem the best thing I’ve learned is there are some great car videos out there explaining these issues. Thank you for this detailed video.
Thank you, thank you. Having had the driver and left hand passenger side actuator replaced by a mechanic .... lots of hundreds of dollars a few years ago, it was depressing to hear the noise again. Your tutorial was very helpful as the sound started when I purposely changed from outside air to recirculated air. Your mention of the right hand passenger side actuator led me to the cause of the sound. I pushed the outside air button and let it click for several minutes until the shutter got back to the proper position and then unplugged the right hand actuator. Time to trade in the car, lots of other things failing. Anyway, thanks for the thorough tutorial and hints about disconnecting it.
I've had that annoying clicking sound for years...if I don't bother the hot/cold dials it's all okay. Just a few days ago it started it & would even continue on after removing the key from the ignition switch. This is a fabulous video...thanks for sharing it! I plan on setting the stepper motor to summer then change it when winter comes around...thanks for the tips to save money!
All 3 of my actuators are bad. The stealership quoted this as a 14 hour job requiring removal of both front seats and the complete dashboard. The estimate came to $2500. Thanks so much for saving me a small fortune!
Oh, wow! Glad you’re saving some money! It’s a very common problem. I actually grabbed two more while I was at the auto salvage last weekend. Only one worked. The other was stripped out inside, lol. These things are awful.
Adding a comment to boost your video! Thank you for showing me where the actuator is located, the easiest path to it, and all of tools required. You even saved me the trouble of trying to find which direction is hot and cold. Great video, easy to understand, and excellent camera work.
This video was excellent. My daughters school car was doing the clicking sound so I just unplugged it. She now thinks she needs the heater to work since its getting cold out. This video answered all my questions. Thank you!
This was the most informative video I've researched, very clear,loud and excellent directions, I installed my driver side, watching you, and saved $$$$ thank you new subscriber
I replaced the actuator and a few weeks later it broke again. The original one I took out didn't even have any broken teeth. I think the door is just old and doesn't turn as easily. I was planning on just keeping the door in a certain position so glad I found your video so I don't have to figure out what way to turn the door.
Excellent! You answered technical questions and gave background explanations I could find no where else. I was not even sure what part to buy until you at the beginning named the part. I was comparing what you were showing and naming with what I was looking at on eBay. I heard myself say “Yep, yep, right.” With confidence I head for this small job. Thank you
Omg really I almost paid a bunch not disclosing the amount but after watching this video I can do it myself appreciated so much safe me a bundle if money.
Thanks for providing the work around. I ordered the actuators but couldn’t tell which one was bad but I knew the outside air versus cabin air circulation was the issue ssooo unplugged that clip.. no more clicking!
Good video bro, i just got this car 10 mins ago, and this is the first repair i need to handle RITE NOW or this sound will drive me bananas, thanks again.
Man this was probably one of the best explaining videos I have ever had the opportunity to watching the hair looked great by the way will definitely be subscribing I wish other mechanics learned from you with going in depth in detail and the potential go-arounds If part availability is not a option you have an awesome day
Thank you so much for making this video!! I already spent $1,500 to replace all of mine! Oh and a new battery for $175 because they drain your battery!! They ruined the piece of dash that covers the Vin number and other things that are visible from the outside of vehicle!!!! THEY were going to charge an additional $300 to replace what they broke??!! Anyways all that money and 2 months later they all started clicking once again!!!!!!!
Oh no! Sorry to hear that! These are notorious for failing. I’ve replaced one of them twice in the last four years. I was recently at an auto salvage yard, and grabbed two more while I was there. I tested them when I got home, and one of them was stripped out and didn’t work, lol. Maybe I’ll grab another handful of them the next time I’m there.
That’s unfortunate, I’m having a hard time getting to my actuator. At least it isn’t the hardest one to get to. I will prevail! Thanks for the informative video!
Working on my mom’s 2014 chevy impala. Thanks to your video, I was able to locate the ticking sound. It’s the hot/cold actuator on the left side of the glove box. I was able to remove the actuator box, but I cannot manually move the hot/cold control shaft!!! Currently the flat sides are vertical cold position…snd it’s winter. Prior to removing the activator box, the heat was working just fine (with ticking that would eventually stop by itself). Help!!!!
Wow this was more informative than hours of research on the internet. Great video. Though I would like to see a tutorial on replacing the mode actuator as well.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial Well, most videos will answer a few questions, but you answered literally every question I had about this part and it's locations, functions, etc. Very well done at putting yourself in the viewers shoes and anticipating what they'll need to know.
Well done. Short and to the point. Excellent explanation of the location, function, and re-install until the new one arrives. I just pulled the center actuator on the kid's 2013 impala. Thank you!
Just finished the install of the driver's side actuator and the inner passenger side actuator. Driver's side sucked to do! I'm thankful for this video! Tips for anyone needing to replace the driver's side.... 1. Also remove the plastic trim plate above the gas and brake petals. It makes this WAY easier. 2. Get a LONG 1/4" rachet extension and universal joint. 12"-14" in length with a 5.5mm socket. I couldn't imagine doing it any differently. 3. A forked ended trim removal tool was really handy for taking loose a couple wire harness holders to gain better access. 3. Have jumper wires handy to help align new actuator hole with the old one. I also had luck by hooking up the power before installing screws and turning the heat and down while holding new part over the existing actuator. It eventually fell into place. 5. Don't get the cheapest part, as you do NOT want to have to do this again. I used Dorman brand $20 on Amazon or Rock Auto. Final thoughts: If i was better prepared with the right tools, it would have been much easier. It really sucked with the tools I had. Glad it's done. If it acts up again, I'm selling the damn thing. 😂
Great information, thanks for sharing! If I ever have to change the driver side, I plan to make a dedicated video. But maybe I’ll take your advice and sell it.
Excellent video. Thank you, it sounded like a machine gun in my car. All I did is. Unplug like you said, cause I could tell it was the air door fresh air door so I'm plugged it like you said and it stopped. I will be replacing it, but it was just driving me insane in the car. Thank you. That was a very, very helpful video.
After watching this and reading these comments I’m laughing but also relived I can do this on my own. This is such an annoying and embarrassing problem, been dealing with it for a month assuming I was bringing it to the shop at some point.
If the car makes this tapping noise even if the car doesn’t have the keys in the ignition, or any buttons being used, is the problem still the actuator? Great video! I like the step by step instructions
I have not personally tried it, but you should definitely be able to rotate it when it’s plugged in and the motor is trying to rotate it. If you manually assist it by trying to rotate the output, it should get it past the stripped gear tooth inside, then the motor should rotate it normally.
Great video. I replaced 2 of my actuators 6 months ago, and now I get the clicking again. So I'm going to do the work-around this time. Enough money has been put into these bastards.
@@philtripi9937 Unfortunately not. The best option is to use am OEM replacement (not a cheap aftermarket replacement), but even those are known to potentially fail in short order. They may have a warranty! If so, I would purchase from an auto parts store, then you can easily swap it for a new one if it falls during the warranty period! I have not investigated that. It is something to look into.
2010 chevy impala, driver side vents not blowing cold like the passenger side until its circulated thru for a few mins. Replaced driver side actuator hoping to fix the issue. Still having the same issue. Any ideas? Any help is most appreciated!
Edit to add: it works! My vent door doesn't rotate by hand. I hope this works anyway. 😓 I never cussed as much in my life as I did replacing the one on the driver side.
This is an excellent video!! Very detailed and informative all the way up to a work around if you can't replace it right away that no other videos have!! You have earned a new subscriber her sir!! Thank You!!
@@TheGreatOne16439 so the computer and the actuator communicate and when you hear the ticking it is trying to "relearn" what it is supposed to do but because the gears are stripped it cannot. Apparently it will even attempt this when the car is off (because it still has power in the battery) so it's basically trying to get back on track with what the computer is telling it. The door could be shut but the actuator is reading it as open. So the gears start spinning. And vice versa
Thank you. You explained and demonstrated that repair very well. I will have to do this myself. So thanks for all the graphics. I think I'll be able to do it myself and save some money!!
This was the only video I saw that showed ALL the actuators and mine was the one on the right side of the glove department door. I had replaced the one on the left side and of course it did not solve the problem. Thank you.
Is there no calibration required? Is there no need to disconnect the negative battery terminal? I'm getting ready to replace both driver's side and passenger side actuators. Great video by the way. Nice presentation.
Yes, it should be calibrated. The actuator should come with instructions. You can use a Scanner/programmer device. Or, you can disconnect the negative battery terminal for five minutes, then reconnect it. Start the car and do not touch the HVAC controls. The HVAC system will perform a self-calibration which takes about two minutes. During this time you may hear the controls moving and activating if you are seating inside the car.
The driver side actuator.If its blowing cold and you just want to take off the actuator all together what position does the white door need to be in to keep hot air for the winter ?
On the fresh air/recirculate actuator there is that massive wiring in the way and it makes it seem almost impossible to get a tool around it to take out the bolts. Do you know of any way to temporarily move that or any tools that may make it easier?
Can you tell me what "position" the actuator all the way on the right has to be in for outside fresh air ? I really couldn't see what position it was in in the video....Thank you for a great video !!
Could the 4th actuator for distribution cause warm air on the driver side but not on the passenger side while AC is on? I already changed all actuator except the 4th. I've looked into the Case Assembly and Lower HVAC Blower Case but I think those are under the dash and just wondering.
The impala I’m working on has an intermittent tapping/clicking that I cannot get the car to recreate now that it’s in my shop. However, the HVAC will only blow air/AC… is the actuator you pulled (the hot/cold) the fix to this assuming heater core and coolant levels are fine? The door is stuck in the closed/vertical position and the flaps will not open.
I had to replace the one under the steering wheel. That was a bitch, but this video made it very easy to find and I did it in my driveway. I also like how it didn’t have a bunch of padding, just straight to the point. Perfect for working on cars as it’s already frustrating
Glad it was helpful, and good job handling the one under the steering wheel! I will definitely make a dedicated video if/when I have to replace that one.
As a 76 year old man, I prefer the OLD metal cable HVAC actuators on the old cars. It took mechanical action to move the lever, Left or Right and they NEVER FAILED.
If you're unfortunate enough to have your driver's side temp control actuator go bad, I recommend finding a small child to reach in and disconnect the wire harness to stop the clicking and then promptly trade in or sell the vehicle to someone you don't like. Should you decide to go through with the repair, prepare to have your left arm look like an 18th century French-Canadian fur trapper that stumbled upon a den of sleeping wolverines.
Pro Tip: When installing the new actuator 90 minutes after starting the project, be sure to reconnect the wire harness first, as the connector can actually become captured behind the newly installed actuator and cause your moment of triumph to become one of despair as you realize you're back at the point you were two hours ago: needing to remove the mounting screws. I also recommend taking a moment to smash the old actuator with a hammer as you imagine it's the face of whoever decided to use plastic gears instead of metal on this part. It will help release your rage and prepare you for installation of the new part.
Very valuable information! I hope the replacement lasts forever for you!
LOL! This is dead on... My left hand all the way to the elbow is torn up... Death by 1000 cuts 😅. And that connector did get trapped behind the actuator but lucking I hadn't put on the screws yet!
Garbage design with those plastic gears. Many auto manufacturers use these and they are guaranteed to fail.
I know the GMs are programmed to actuate these blend door modules every time you open and close the door to regulate air pressure in the cabin. That's to reduce the risk of damaging your ears when a door is slammed shut.
That's a lot of wear on the 5 cent crap gears.
The left Side isn't that bad. Patience and Correct tools are all that are needed. I did one yesterday in 30 minutes.
Putting a rag over the sheet metal will stop some of the cuts. Still the most miserable job.
You saved me $532.00. That's how much the dealer wanted to replace the easiest one. I paid $225.00 to have them "diagnose" the problem. The service advisor knew what it was but took my money anyway. Fortunately I found this video before I got the call letting me know what the problem was. The 2014 Impala Limited is even easier, as the passenger side blend door activator is held in place with only 2 screws, Both easily accessible without the glovebox in place. Thanks again!
That’s great to hear! Glad he saved some money!
How much did you Huye the new ones?
@@louangecesarbugingo3079like 45 for all 4
Funny you say they took your money when you took it to them😅invest in a otc reader simple process
Tat tat tat tat tat tat has been a part of my life for close to a year now. Thank you!!!
Same here
Awesome and simple video on this common problem that GM should have fixed several years ago!
I cant believe I paid almost $300 for this , I should have done it myself ughhh. Thenk you for your video, super well made.
Glad I could help!
This video was one of a kind by explaining how the flats are cold when vertical and hot when horizontal. Well done
Glad it helped! I appreciate it!
I’m so happy! I think I can do this myself! It’s SO ANNOYING
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial⁶⁶⁶⁶⁶⁶[⁵⁵t❤😊
Great video
Yes! Re-found the correct Mechanic! Like this guy!
Man, a video that is precisely right to the point, without one second waste of time, humor and zero narcissistic
attitude...Thank You!
Glad you enjoyed it, and glad it was helpful!
This video is the best I have ever seen,its precise,clear, loud and informative.All the things needed for a perfect you tube channel to help those seeking an answer to that very annoying clicking. Well done in a big way.
Thanks, I appreciate it! I plan the structure out ahead of time to make sure I cover all of the important information in a logical order. The purpose is always to help people out.
Exactly what he said! ^^^^ Thank you for the vid!
Definitely one of the best instructional videos I've followed on TH-cam to date. Instructor was clear and precise individualization was excellent. Unfortunately visualization is the only way I'm able to really learn technical things. Keep up the good work do great job!
Thanks, I appreciate it! Glad you enjoyed it!
Wow! I'm an old girl at 72 and you sure saved me some money! I love you!
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Worlds greatest “How to fix something” video for us non-mechanical people! Thanks!
This is hands-down the best video to identify and address these actuator issues. Thank you.
I appreciate it, glad it helped!
You’re a hero dude. When I asked the shop about this they said the dash would have to come out. Much easier than I was anticipating.
That’s crazy. The passenger side is super easy.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial My passenger side actuators were replaced. The ticking is coming from the driver's side. Am I really able to replace the actuator from underneath instead of removing the entire dashboard? *fingers crossed*
@@DivaDelgado128 1:25 yes you can. ive done it before but he shows you how to get to it at the time that i stamped. good luck!!
Absolutely Superb!!!!! Very detailed and complete. The only thing I would add is how do you figure out which one is Tapping. Well, lower the glove box and start car. Mine starts tapping
immediately. Simply put your fingers on the 2 actuators and you can feel or see which one is the trouble maker. If neither on the right are the offender, you know it is the one under steering
column.
Good instructions, thanks for sharing!
This video saved my life and my relationship, thank you for the clear explanation and workaround.
I understand. Glad it helped.
Since encountering this problem the best thing I’ve learned is there are some great car videos out there explaining these issues. Thank you for this detailed video.
Thank you for making this excellent video!
FYI - if you don't have a 5.5mm socket (like me), a 7/32" SAE works👍
Nice! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, thank you. Having had the driver and left hand passenger side actuator replaced by a mechanic .... lots of hundreds of dollars a few years ago, it was depressing to hear the noise again. Your tutorial was very helpful as the sound started when I purposely changed from outside air to recirculated air. Your mention of the right hand passenger side actuator led me to the cause of the sound. I pushed the outside air button and let it click for several minutes until the shutter got back to the proper position and then unplugged the right hand actuator. Time to trade in the car, lots of other things failing. Anyway, thanks for the thorough tutorial and hints about disconnecting it.
I've had that annoying clicking sound for years...if I don't bother the hot/cold dials it's all okay. Just a few days ago it started it & would even continue on after removing the key from the ignition switch. This is a fabulous video...thanks for sharing it! I plan on setting the stepper motor to summer then change it when winter comes around...thanks for the tips to save money!
Glad it helped!
so which actuator did you have to replace or did you have to replace all?
@@KeaganTuel Ended up replacing the passenger side actuator. That fixed the issue.
All 3 of my actuators are bad. The stealership quoted this as a 14 hour job requiring removal of both front seats and the complete dashboard. The estimate came to $2500. Thanks so much for saving me a small fortune!
Oh, wow! Glad you’re saving some money!
It’s a very common problem. I actually grabbed two more while I was at the auto salvage last weekend. Only one worked. The other was stripped out inside, lol. These things are awful.
Can you tell me the name of these actuators? Is is blend door or HVAC ?
That is criminal! to charge that kind of money for a simple fix
Adding a comment to boost your video! Thank you for showing me where the actuator is located, the easiest path to it, and all of tools required. You even saved me the trouble of trying to find which direction is hot and cold. Great video, easy to understand, and excellent camera work.
Thanks for the comment, I really appreciate it! Glad the video was helpful!
This video was excellent. My daughters school car was doing the clicking sound so I just unplugged it. She now thinks she needs the heater to work since its getting cold out. This video answered all my questions. Thank you!
Awesome! Glad it helped!
This was the most informative video I've researched, very clear,loud and excellent directions, I installed my driver side, watching you, and saved $$$$ thank you new subscriber
Glad it helped! Thanks for the sub and welcome to the channel! I post a large variety of videos, I hope you find some helpful or entertaining!
Thanks for making my Christmas Day. The recirculate/fresh air actuator had started clicking and kept clicking. I unplugged it within 15 minutes.
Awesome!
I replaced the actuator and a few weeks later it broke again. The original one I took out didn't even have any broken teeth. I think the door is just old and doesn't turn as easily. I was planning on just keeping the door in a certain position so glad I found your video so I don't have to figure out what way to turn the door.
Glad it helped! I also replaced it twice in a year. Just leaving it locked in position from now on.
Excellent! You answered technical questions and gave background explanations I could find no where else. I was not even sure what part to buy until you at the beginning named the part. I was comparing what you were showing and naming with what I was looking at on eBay. I heard myself say “Yep, yep, right.” With confidence I head for this small job. Thank you
Awesome! So glad it was helpful!
This is hands down the best video I've seen in a while!!
Glad it was helpful!
Omg really I almost paid a bunch not disclosing the amount but after watching this video I can do it myself appreciated so much safe me a bundle if money.
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Thanks for providing the work around. I ordered the actuators but couldn’t tell which one was bad but I knew the outside air versus cabin air circulation was the issue ssooo unplugged that clip.. no more clicking!
Nice! Glad it helped!
Guy charging me 800 to do all three .Fair price .Got the car for good price so it's worth it.Great video also
Did all 3 need to be replaced, if so how did you know
Took about 30 min on the driver side. Your video helped me a lot thank you
Nice job! Glad the video helped!
Good video bro, i just got this car 10 mins ago, and this is the first repair i need to handle RITE NOW or this sound will drive me bananas, thanks again.
Lol. For sure. If it’s on the passenger side, it’s a super easy replacement.
Man this was probably one of the best explaining videos I have ever had the opportunity to watching the hair looked great by the way will definitely be subscribing I wish other mechanics learned from you with going in depth in detail and the potential go-arounds If part availability is not a option you have an awesome day
Glad you enjoyed it! I hope you enjoy some of the other videos!
4sure I will and you have a wonderful humor best regards
Thank you so much for making this video!! I already spent $1,500 to replace all of mine! Oh and a new battery for $175 because they drain your battery!! They ruined the piece of dash that covers the Vin number and other things that are visible from the outside of vehicle!!!! THEY were going to charge an additional $300 to replace what they broke??!! Anyways all that money and 2 months later they all started clicking once again!!!!!!!
Oh no! Sorry to hear that!
These are notorious for failing. I’ve replaced one of them twice in the last four years.
I was recently at an auto salvage yard, and grabbed two more while I was there. I tested them when I got home, and one of them was stripped out and didn’t work, lol. Maybe I’ll grab another handful of them the next time I’m there.
If your day job doesn't work out, you could always be a person that helps explain things on kids shows.
Lol. Thanks!
That’s unfortunate, I’m having a hard time getting to my actuator. At least it isn’t the hardest one to get to. I will prevail!
Thanks for the informative video!
Glad it was helpful! Good luck!
Fixed! Apparently I had two bad actuators, both on the passengers side. Thanks again!
@@shoki7234 Awesome! Great job! Hopefully the one on the driver’s side lasts forever!
Working on my mom’s 2014 chevy impala. Thanks to your video, I was able to locate the ticking sound. It’s the hot/cold actuator on the left side of the glove box. I was able to remove the actuator box, but I cannot manually move the hot/cold control shaft!!! Currently the flat sides are vertical cold position…snd it’s winter. Prior to removing the activator box, the heat was working just fine (with ticking that would eventually stop by itself). Help!!!!
Wow this was more informative than hours of research on the internet. Great video. Though I would like to see a tutorial on replacing the mode actuator as well.
Glad it was helpful! I’m pretty sure the dash needs to be removed to access that fourth actuator.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial Well, most videos will answer a few questions, but you answered literally every question I had about this part and it's locations, functions, etc. Very well done at putting yourself in the viewers shoes and anticipating what they'll need to know.
EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT VIDEO! To the point, Landscape mode with no LOUD ANNOYING BACKGROUND NOISE (SOME CALL IT MUSIC)
Thank you so much!! My passenger side actuator JUST started clicking. You are a life saver
That one is super easy to replace. Glad it helped!
Well done. Short and to the point. Excellent explanation of the location, function, and re-install until the new one arrives. I just pulled the center actuator on the kid's 2013 impala. Thank you!
Glad it helped!
Just finished the install of the driver's side actuator and the inner passenger side actuator.
Driver's side sucked to do! I'm thankful for this video!
Tips for anyone needing to replace the driver's side....
1. Also remove the plastic trim plate above the gas and brake petals. It makes this WAY easier.
2. Get a LONG 1/4" rachet extension and universal joint. 12"-14" in length with a 5.5mm socket. I couldn't imagine doing it any differently.
3. A forked ended trim removal tool was really handy for taking loose a couple wire harness holders to gain better access.
3. Have jumper wires handy to help align new actuator hole with the old one. I also had luck by hooking up the power before installing screws and turning the heat and down while holding new part over the existing actuator. It eventually fell into place.
5. Don't get the cheapest part, as you do NOT want to have to do this again. I used Dorman brand $20 on Amazon or Rock Auto.
Final thoughts:
If i was better prepared with the right tools, it would have been much easier. It really sucked with the tools I had. Glad it's done. If it acts up again, I'm selling the damn thing. 😂
Great information, thanks for sharing!
If I ever have to change the driver side, I plan to make a dedicated video. But maybe I’ll take your advice and sell it.
When you want to sell, let us know
Excellent video. Thank you, it sounded like a machine gun in my car. All I did is. Unplug like you said, cause I could tell it was the air door fresh air door so I'm plugged it like you said and it stopped. I will be replacing it, but it was just driving me insane in the car. Thank you. That was a very, very helpful video.
Lol. Super easy to replace! I was at the auto salvage yard a couple days ago and grabbed a few more for spares while I was there.
YOUR AWESOME !!!!! YOU EXPLAINED EVERY DETAIL..... YOU GOT A NEW SUBSCRIBER
Glad it was helpful! Welcome aboard!
Thank you! My boyfriend and I were able to fix my noise really easily!!!
Awesome! Glad I could help!
This was the best actuator video ever and simple. Thanks man!
I had 3 of these cars and it wasn’t to my third one I found this video to help me.Thanks
After watching this and reading these comments I’m laughing but also relived I can do this on my own. This is such an annoying and embarrassing problem, been dealing with it for a month assuming I was bringing it to the shop at some point.
It is definitely annoying! Hopefully it’s one of the passenger side actuators. Those are the easiest to access.
Super helpful. Instructive and simple, without going to fast to understand. Thanks!
Thank you for confirming that the temp control and the recirculate actuator are the same part
If the car makes this tapping noise even if the car doesn’t have the keys in the ignition, or any buttons being used, is the problem still the actuator? Great video! I like the step by step instructions
Yes, this tapping will occur when the car is not on and with no key in the ignition. Addressing the actuator will fix the problem!
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial yup
This was fun and easy to get too. Thank you! It's now fixed.
this is a great video , you should be teaching others on how to make great repair videos , nice job.
I appreciate it! Glad it’s helpful!
Hey appreciate the video bro I did the work around for my hot/cold actuator but is there a way to manually turn the fresh air/recirculate actuator?
I have not personally tried it, but you should definitely be able to rotate it when it’s plugged in and the motor is trying to rotate it. If you manually assist it by trying to rotate the output, it should get it past the stripped gear tooth inside, then the motor should rotate it normally.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial appreciate the response bro
Exceptional video. I am going to replace all three. All three are the same part number in your link?
Glad it helped!
Yes, all three are the same part number.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial good ordered all three from your link. Thank you so much chief.
Nice vid! I had quotes of 200 labor and 80 a motor from mechanics. Bought 2 motors off Amazon for $22. Unreal…
That’s wild. Glad you are able to do it yourself and save some money!
Thank you, Sir, I purchased a set of the two motors and I will replace them tomorrow.
Great!
Great video. I replaced 2 of my actuators 6 months ago, and now I get the clicking again. So I'm going to do the work-around this time. Enough money has been put into these bastards.
Same here. The one that went bad in this video was a replacement from about a year ago.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficialany idea how to get ones that last longer? The oem aren’t great but somehow lasted 7 years in my 2016 LTZ
@@philtripi9937 Unfortunately not. The best option is to use am OEM replacement (not a cheap aftermarket replacement), but even those are known to potentially fail in short order. They may have a warranty! If so, I would purchase from an auto parts store, then you can easily swap it for a new one if it falls during the warranty period! I have not investigated that. It is something to look into.
2010 chevy impala, driver side vents not blowing cold like the passenger side until its circulated thru for a few mins. Replaced driver side actuator hoping to fix the issue. Still having the same issue. Any ideas? Any help is most appreciated!
Edit to add: it works! My vent door doesn't rotate by hand. I hope this works anyway. 😓
I never cussed as much in my life as I did replacing the one on the driver side.
You are a warrior changing the driver side. Nice work!
Great video you put together. Gave all the info a fella or fellet would need to know going into this repair
Very good video! Just replaced my center actuator. Good feeling when you can save LOTS of money!👍
For sure! Glad it helped!
This is an excellent video!! Very detailed and informative all the way up to a work around if you can't replace it right away that no other videos have!! You have earned a new subscriber her sir!! Thank You!!
Glad it was helpful, and welcome to the channel! I post a variety of how to add review videos. I hope you find than helpful or entertaining!
Why does it make the noise when the car is completely off?
Because the battery still has charge in it. As long as the battery isn't crap it won't kill the battery.
@@JeremyStaszak True but that doesn't answer my question.
@@TheGreatOne16439 so the computer and the actuator communicate and when you hear the ticking it is trying to "relearn" what it is supposed to do but because the gears are stripped it cannot. Apparently it will even attempt this when the car is off (because it still has power in the battery) so it's basically trying to get back on track with what the computer is telling it. The door could be shut but the actuator is reading it as open. So the gears start spinning. And vice versa
Excellent way of explaining and teaching 👍
Glad it helped!
Thank you. You explained and demonstrated that repair very well. I will have to do this myself. So thanks for all the graphics. I think I'll be able to do it myself and save some money!!
Glad it was helpful. You can definitely do it.
Exactly what I needed to know and super helpful. Thanks for making this video!!
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video! Didn’t know about the third actuator for the inside outside air flow! Thank you
Told me exactly what I needed to know and showed me exactly how to do it . Thankyou
What are the “flats” positions for the fresh air/recirculation?
Thanks for video. I have diagnosed it as the driver side actuator. Can I just ignore the noise or will this one run down my battery?
This was a great video. Informative with bits of entertainment.
Awesome video, I know many others said it already but this was so informative, detailed and funny! Thank you
Glad it was helpful, and glad you enjoyed the humor! I try to add some humor so the videos are not too boring.
This was the only video I saw that showed ALL the actuators and mine was the one on the right side of the glove department door. I had replaced the one on the left side and of course it did not solve the problem. Thank you.
Is there no calibration required? Is there no need to disconnect the negative battery terminal? I'm getting ready to replace both driver's side and passenger side actuators. Great video by the way. Nice presentation.
Yes, it should be calibrated. The actuator should come with instructions.
You can use a Scanner/programmer device.
Or, you can disconnect the negative battery terminal for five minutes, then reconnect it. Start the car and do not touch the HVAC controls. The HVAC system will perform a self-calibration which takes about two minutes. During this time you may hear the controls moving and activating if you are seating inside the car.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial Thank you. I'm not looking forward to replacing these but it sure helps to see videos like yours.
I just bought a 2008 Impala LT complete with ticking noise, thanks for the video
Lol
Do you have a video of replacing the 4th one that controls the air distribution?
I do not, but I did see one on TH-cam. I will look for it.
th-cam.com/video/Lx2mI04Ilqo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=QHFp8wLlx1Uwu4EU
Thanks you!
Why does the opening the car door affect this?
Man
The driver side actuator.If its blowing cold and you just want to take off the actuator all together what position does the white door need to be in to keep hot air for the winter ?
Can you feel the clicking in the part if you put a finger on the part when you recreate the issue? Great video, clear and concise. Thanks
I can’t confirm it because I don’t currently have any that click, but I would say definitely yes. The clicking is pretty loud and violent.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial Ok I would think so too. It absolutely wrecks my ears but I’m not sure which one it is yet. Thanks again.
On the fresh air/recirculate actuator there is that massive wiring in the way and it makes it seem almost impossible to get a tool around it to take out the bolts. Do you know of any way to temporarily move that or any tools that may make it easier?
Very good instruction! Thanks! Just ordered my part, should have it fixed tomorrow.
Awesome!
Great video! It's informative, accurate, funny, and to the point.
THANKS .. I found it easy after seeing this ..well sort of easy.. 😋
I have the same problem glad i came across this video ! Thanks for posting
Great vid. Clear easy steps to follow it’s getting cold out here in NC and last winter I had to freeze. Not this winter thanks.
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Good Vid! Helpful!👍
Hair: Are you Giorgio, the Ancient Alien guy? ;-)
Great video. Thank you! Is the driver side and the passenger side actuator the same part?
Yes, all three are the same part.
HELLZ YA. Now I don't have to hear my wife say she's cold in winter for a whike..lol thanx for the video
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Going to attempt to do this-thank you for the detailed video
Can you tell me what "position" the actuator all the way on the right has to be in for outside fresh air ? I really couldn't see what position it was in in the video....Thank you for a great video !!
No problem! The door should be closed/down for fresh air and open/up for recirculated air.
@@HowtoandReviewsOfficial Thanks !!
Absolutely EXCELLENT in
Knowing MY Personal ISSUE with
MY Car
Thank YOU🙏🙏🙏 Very Much🙏
WE shall see but I believe it is #3!
The two on the passenger side are super easy to replace! Hopefully it’s number three!
Could the 4th actuator for distribution cause warm air on the driver side but not on the passenger side while AC is on? I already changed all actuator except the 4th. I've looked into the Case Assembly and Lower HVAC Blower Case but I think those are under the dash and just wondering.
Do you have a video for the 4th module mentioned at the beginning? that’s what’s broken in my car
I personally don’t. But I have seen a video for it. I will try to find it later.
Here it is!
th-cam.com/video/Lx2mI04Ilqo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=mQBNC3ldDnFYP9Y4
Best of all vids on these cheap actuators! (Another horrible cheap design by GM)
Thanks! They are indeed destined to fail. As soon as you install a brand new one, you have already lost, lol.
The impala I’m working on has an intermittent tapping/clicking that I cannot get the car to recreate now that it’s in my shop.
However, the HVAC will only blow air/AC… is the actuator you pulled (the hot/cold) the fix to this assuming heater core and coolant levels are fine? The door is stuck in the closed/vertical position and the flaps will not open.
Can you make a video of the uncommon actuator replacement? That's the one that is broken in mine
The next time I need to replace it, I will absolutely make a video!
I had to replace the one under the steering wheel. That was a bitch, but this video made it very easy to find and I did it in my driveway. I also like how it didn’t have a bunch of padding, just straight to the point. Perfect for working on cars as it’s already frustrating
Glad it was helpful, and good job handling the one under the steering wheel! I will definitely make a dedicated video if/when I have to replace that one.
My 2008 is doing this. So annoying. I hope I can figure it out.
How did you move the harness out of the way?