Finally a video with someone who knows what he’s talking about. Also, he tells you how, why, when & where the problem is and shows how to fix it. No fluff. I love to know how things work too. Your voice is soothing and easy to listen to, not AI!!!! Great big 👍🏽 from me! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Just used this video to replace the Blend Door Actuator on my 2011 'Nox. It had been making a random clunk noise for a couple of months but everything seemed to be working fine otherwise...until this weekend when the clunk became constant if I had the temperature on anything higher than LOW. It would wait until mid-December to bite the dust. This video is good at showing the location of the part. Getting all the cables out of their clips can be bit of a pain; I used a plastic ply tool for the tougher clips and then the cables move pretty freely after that. The three bolts on the actuator are all 1/4" with a Phillips screw head, I was able to get to the front and top bolt with a screwdriver (carefully to avoid stripping, the angle is a bit tough) and used a ratchet for the back bolt. Pretty easy job altogether, took about 30 minutes and everything seems to be running like new again. Thanks for the tips! Also, here is a good vid for removing the glove box to reach this part: th-cam.com/video/X6Oej5LIyqM/w-d-xo.html
I have 2010 GMC Terrain that quit putting out heat. it would just put out cold air. I moved the temp all the way up and down but it stayed cold. I pulled the fuse that you mentioned in the video. This worked for one time and went back to cold. Since the Equinox is the basically the same as the Terrain, I bought the part I needed and installed it. It seems to be working. I didn't have any ticking noise. Thanks for the video! It saved me time and money.
Big thanks Upper Peninsula Fun. Completed everything in about 30 minutes with a Dorman blend door actuator replacement from Auto Zone for about $35.00, for my 2010 Equinox. Prior to removal of the old actuator I set the temperature on max cold. Then surprisingly the new actuator was set about the same, or I could have set the new one slowly to max cold just by plugging it in and adjusting it slowly (prior to installation). Then the new actuator pretty much was aligned correctly for installation. Next I had the key off, and removed fuse number 12 HVAC/BATT, for more than 10 seconds, and replaced the fuse back and then the system re-calibrated in about 10 seconds (and I touched nothing during that re-calibration). Yes, the system did the re-calibration after I put the fuse back in, and before I turned the key on, .......NOT........exactly according to the plan set out in the alternative method (w/o scan tool) for re-calibration of HVAC actuator, found on the Internet. The GM HVAC system re-calibration: 1. Place the ignition switch to the OFF position.2. Remove the fuse labeled HVAC/ECAS a minimum of 10 seconds.3. Re-install the HVAC/ECAS fuse.4. Start the vehicle but do not touch the controls.5. Wait 40 seconds to see whether the control module will self-calibrate.6. If the system still does not work, repair will be needed. I called my local Chevy dealership and they said a diagnosis test is $100.00 plus parts about $87.56 plus labor, about $300 - $500 total. P.S. A TH-cam video by Sjp2727 , entitled: 2004 Chevy Silverado Popping Sound From Dash , has an even better answer to this fix for free. Just remove the actuator and carefully take it apart, then clean with a q-tip the grease on raceway beneath the big gear to stop the over travel problem when the contacts do not make a good connection. The over travel is what makes the clicking/ flapping sound. Although a cracked/split gear or broken teeth on the gear will make about the same sound, whereby the motor cannot travel anymore but attempts to do so, and a rhythmic clicking sound is heard. The 2004 Silverado actuator is not the exact same model as my actuator, but the principle is the same. Thanks again.
+John Bushouse Update. I took apart my old actuator and found one broken tooth on the main gear to the actuator and one broken tooth on a gear to that gear. So replacement was necessary and already accomplished. Also the above TH-cam video from the 2004 Chevy does NOT apply as a remedy fix to clean the raceway of grease to allow the contacts to actually make contact, was not possible. No same raceway exists, therefore my above comments were premature and not correct in this matter. I do get a small flutter sound when I change the temperature controls slowly (and fan speed is off), but not when I change it fast. Why? Not sure. My part from Dorman is not the Original Equipment Manufacturer, so not quite up to specifications, a little bit of flutter. But with the radio on, I won't hear it, and with the fan on I can't hear it.
Thank you kindly, you helped me fix my 2015 equinox this way. The dealer wanted $2500 to fix my heat after they charged me $$500 plus labor for a new thermostat I didn’t need!
Thanks for the video. I almost went through the whole process of taking out the dash under the steering wheel, the radio and radio bracket until I watched your video and realized I also had the knocking sound and the actuator that needed replaced was inside the glove box. Can't beat 3 screws and a $40 part to get your heat blowing again!
Thx for the info. Froze my butt off this morning! (30 deg). Instead of buying a new motor (can't get to store until weekend), I removed the motor and manually rotated the gear counterclockwise and BOOM, HEAT!!!!! Nice to have the essentials in life, Ha Ha! Thanks again, this video really helped.
Nice work with moving the door manually to get heat until you can get a new actuator! I'm glad the video helped you out. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great video. I'd like to see trim removal from drivers side and floor mode actuator swap out from 2013 Equinox. Your video stating the fact about pulling the fuse and letting the computer recalibrate the HVAC system is a nice professional touch. Very well done.
I'm on my third actuator now. Shop replaced it the first two times. The part lasts about two years and then breaks again. Thought I would try it myself this time. Getting at the Phillips heads that hold the actuator in place is a pain. Thanks for the video!
I'm glad the video helped. Them screws are a bit of a pain, one in particular if I remember right. If it goes again maybe try getting a replacement actuator from GM instead of aftermarket. Good luck!
Thanks so much Bud your video is great and that was exactly our problem 2011 equinox didn't take long and you saved me $$$$ so cool how we all can just fire up youtube and see great videos that work, Thanks again.
Heat was out in my 2010 Equinox. It would blow cold only but all the vents were working and could switch from vent to vent but would not warm up. It is midwinter. With these instructions spent about 30 minutes replacing it. The part cost $39. Screws were a pain to get to but a wrench, screwdriver, a flexible head and a few choice swear words got it done. Heats working and I'm sure I saved some money.
That's great avilatte! I'm glad the video helped you out! I hear ya on the screws. There is one screw in particular that I had a few choice words for also and I'm sure you know which one.
Would like to add two very notable things when installing. When I install the new actuator, the screw holes did not lineup so rather than forcibly rotating the actuator to line the screw holes up, I plugged the actuator in, turned the ignition key on, then I turned the hot cold dial, which moved the actuator until it lined up with the screw holes. I wound up somewhere all the way cold on the thermostat dial. Second thing, I turned the ignition key off, screwed the actuator in. Then I pulled the number 12 fuse out for 10 seconds WITHOUT turning the Ignition key on. Very important. Do not turn the car on yet. Pull the fuse with the car off for 10 seconds. Plug the fuse back in and it will reset. Wait about 30 seconds during the reset. Then turn the car on, but don’t touch any dials, wait about a minute. And that’s it. If I did not do this, in this order everything was backward. But doing it in this order it works perfect for me. Just wanted to share. Cheers.
It's been a while since making this video. As long as you have a 1/4" socket set you should be fine. I want to say it was something like an 8mm for the screws on the actuator but I'm not sure.
For my Canadian (Toronto) friends out there don't go to Napa first for this part...they may be $40 from Napa USA, but at the Canadian Napa stores this part goes for $72 + tax...you can find this part from Dorman on Amazon.ca but the shipping costs are prohibitive ($39 for the part & $40 for shipping...Wah?) ...check out your local Collins Automotive parts store (Oshawa/Scarborough Ontario)...The original AC Delco part at Collins is just $44 + tax. Not sure why the Napa part from a third party manufacturer is so much more expensive, but I'm very glad I called around first. Hopefully you have smaller hands than me and lots of small tool options as getting to the three bolts holding in the actuator motor was tricky but an easy DIY for those who are handy.
Mine clicks, but only when I start to turn the temperature control half way around 3 o'clock position. Now my ac isn't running cold, cooler on driver side, warmer on passenger side. If I replace that actuator, will it help with my ac? I also learned that using a 1/4 inch mini ratchet with a 7/32nd bit will be useful in removing those screws.
Thanks for stopping by and watching Jami! It's very possible that this blend door actuator might be what is wrong with yours also. If you are getting cold air on the driver side though it may not be the blend door but rather a different actuator. I believe there is a total of 3 or 4 actuators on the HVAC system in these cars.
It still could be the actuator. Maybe yours is just stuck in its position with no clicking or movement. Still could be a number of things wrong though. Test to make sure your getting power at the actuator.
To those with this problem, like me, a temporary work around until you replace the actuator is to crank the temperature all the way up then all the way down and up again in manual mode and you'll get heat. Mine started doing this after replacing my battery so I wonder if the problem is it just lost it's calibration.
A year later and I ended up replacing the actuator on the left side to fix it. Now I have a second actuator out, the one that controls the blend door as seen in this video. It clicked for a long while now it just makes a whirring sound and I get no heat. A lot easier to replace this one than the one on the driver side.
I just finished installing my new actuator. All fixed I got heat again. I opened the old one and the plastic gears were completely stripped. So when it starts clicking it means it's lost some teeth and going to get worse before it fails totally. My $20 Amazon replacement was indistinguishable from the OEM it replaced right down to the numbers.
We have 96 equinox. Great car! I have Tahoe and it clicks a little. It has separate temp controls? Drivers side and passenger side. If I nudge the temp from cold towards the hot about 1/2 inch it quits the sound. Been that way for years. Yesterday, I turned right turn signal on in the Tahoe and both lights flash on the dash. So I thought bulb must be out but they are all fine. Left signal is fine just flashes left arrow in dash. Weird, huh. I haven't started searching it out online yet but that's next I guess.
I know that you stated that you pulled fuse number 12 for the HVAC and I see that number on the door to the fuse panel. There are no numbers by the actual fuses inside the panel only numbers on the fuses. So which number fuse did you pull out?
The labeling on the fuse door is in the correct order as the fuse panel. What I mean is if 12 is the 3rd fuse from the top on the left, just count down to the 3rd fuse on the fuse panel. Thanks for watching and commenting!
I've heard that one is tough to do. Here is a link that I use to get service data on vehicles. It should tell you step how to replace that actuator. It costs $20 USD for a month access. It might help you out. I'm not affiliated with them at all, I just use them when I get in a jam and need to find information out on a vehicles. www.eautorepair.net/
Got a 2011 Chevy Equinox here, AC and heat are working fine but will only work on the defrost setting. Any ideas why we don't have any air or heat from the front panels or around the floor / feet areas? Any feedback would be appreciated, thanks.
It sounds like you may have an issue with the mode door actuator rather than the blend door actuator in this video. I believe there are 3 actuators on the hvac system in these cars. I could be wrong, I'm not an expert. There is the blend door like I replaced which controls the hot and cold, there is the mode door actuator that controls where the air blows like on the feet or defrost, there is also another called the air inlet door actuator which controls the external air coming in. I believe the mode door actuator is under the dash on the driver side. Much more difficult to get at but still a DIY project if your handy with tools. Did you try the re-calibration procedure I mentioned in this video? Do you here any clicking noises under the dash when you turn the key on? I hope this helps you troubleshoot a little further. Keep us updated on what you find out. Thanks for watching!
we got just hot air coming from our equinox. im gonna pull that actuator and replace as shown. hopefully i dont have to pull the dash off. THAT would suck. Will update.
That's a bummer, this is an easy fix if it works but sometimes the problem is somewhere else. Good luck on finding the issue. Hopefully you won't have to pull the dash out.
Similar to Good Friend, I have a 2011 Equinox, and the temp controls are fine, but the settings for all for the vents, etc are all amiss. The only settings that work are when i select things for floor heat, which then comes out from defrost vents. Any other selection, I get no venting of any air. Would this also be the mode door actuator? Concerned only because not only are the defrost vents working, but they work only when a different selection is made...thank you for any insight and help!
Hi Dan, does the blower actually shut off when you select other options other than defrost? It sounds like you might have other issues other than the actuators.
It SOUNDS like it is still going, but I do not get any airflow (actually VERY slight) through the dash vents or floor vents. Again, I select floor vents, and it comes through the windshield defrost vents. I select dash vents, nothing (anywhere)...I select windshield defrost vents, nothing (anywhere)...I am thinking the actuator gear may be offset, broken, etc...
Oh ok, I think your right. It may be that the gears are stripped out on the mode actuator or possible the mode door itself is broke (I've seen that in other videos with the door being broke). It still may be something more electronic though being the computer that runs the actuators. You will have to troubleshoot more to figure that out. Good luck and post back what you find, I'm curious. Thanks!
Upper Peninsula DIY great, thanks for the help! Hoping it's the actuator, as that seems simpler to rectify...guessing the mode door itself will involve more invasive work...
wow I almost started to pull the dash to replace the blend door then saw your video about the actuator not working, thanks a million dealer wanted to rip me off for $1000 for a $35 part.
Hi, I have an 07 Eqinox. My blower doors by my feet will not open to warm my feet. The vents by the doors on the dash put out very little air. They do blow some but not like they used to. Makes for a cold morning commute. Is that a different actuator? What you describe does not quite sound like my problem mine also does not make noise.. thanks
Hi Laraina, sounds like yours might be a different actuator. I think there is 3 different actuators on the HVAC system. The one in this video is the actuator just for switching between hot and cold. There also could be a host of different problems that you might have such as a bad switch on the dash for switching the modes. You would almost need to find the right actuator and test it. I know that doesn't really help you out much.
It's possible. The clicking comes from the gears inside trying to turn past their limit. It would be possible the the electronics in the motor quit working and the gears just aren't turning at all.
great video! exact same problem i had over the summer...took it to the dealer, they said they couldnt recreate and told me to come back. i even showed them a video i'd taken with the same sound! now, i have no heat! how long would you say this took you to do? i dont think i will attempt, well maybe i'll just try resetting the fuse...but, if i took to mechanic, how long should it take them? trying to estimate the cost...
+lucia vazquez Thanks for watching. Replacing the actuator in this Equinox took only about 20 minutes. Really easy to change. I doubt resetting the fuse will work but it's worth a shot anyway. It sounds like your actuator is probably stuck past it's limit. The type of vehicle you have and the location of your hot/cold blend door actuator will determine the amount of time it will take to replace it.
Hi I replaced the HVAC actuator on my 2013 Chevy equinox but the knocking noise continue can you help? i can hear the knock twice then it stop coming from the dashboard closer to the fan
I would guess that the HVAC control module needs to be recalibrated or there is another actuator that is bad. If I remember right to recalibrate, key on-pull HVAC fuse for 30 seconds or so-reinsert fuse. Hope that helps.
Followed your instructions but the noise is still there. The only difference is that the "knocking" sound is faster now, if that makes any sense. Not sure what to do now. Any ideas?
@@UpperPeninsulaDIY yes I did, and you might be right about that. I just found out that it only makes the noise if I run the dashboard vents alone...if I switch to floor and dashboard mode I no longer hear it and I can live with that for now lol. I'm glad I don't have to hear that every time I turn my car on.
I have a 2016 equinox. Mine isnt clicking but 2 times now ive been driving with ac on and it starts blowing hot air like ive turned the heat on. Few seconds later, it blows cold again. Is this a blend door issue?
@@rickrich7325 I know this post is old. But any chance anyone can tell me the recalibration part? I took the fuse out. Few times. No more clicking after changing the actuator but warm heat not hot. Thanks
@@tat2rodholland667 funny thing, I started noticing sometimes when I jarred the car, hit a bump etc it would slowly start & work! Did it this morning ( actually hit the glove compartment door hard) and it started lol. I think the fan under the dash maybe the bearings a gummed up or something. I’m going to get a new fan to pop in in the next week or so.
I don't think they are all the same. They can differ from vehicle to vehicle and depending their function. Just look for a blend door actuator for your specific vehicle.
Upper Peninsula DIY oh my bad, what I meant was there was 3 separate actuators as you were saying, and are all those ones the same? I'm going to head over to my local Napa store this weekend
Oh I see what your saying. I'm actually not sure if all 3 are the same part number or not. The Napa part # is 655-1655. That is for the hot cold blend door.
Yah I'm going to try to just re set them first here in a few if it fails I'll change the same actuator you did, if I reset them and it works then fails I'll keep an update! Thanks
My wife just came home and said that she had no heat. I didn't have any clicking sounds but after watching this video I pulled the fuse for 10 seconds and now I have heat. Maybe the actuator was stuck? But thanks much!
+lenfrack That's great! I hope this video helped. I would suspect that you will be replacing one of the actuators soon, probably the same one I did. Thanks for watching! Be sure to like, share and subscribe for more videos.
A generic code scanner wouldn't be able to show if it was bad but an actual scanner that a shop would have might be able to see what position the actuator is in.
+elaine stuart I used a straight screw driver to unclip the wiring harness from the actuator. There is then three screws that hold the actuator in place. I believe a 1/4" socket fit the screw heads but I'm not sure on that. I just grabbed a couple sockets out of my toolbox and used the one that fit, didn't pay attention to what size it was. I hope the video helps you out. Post back to let us know how your replacement goes. Thanks for watching!
Just replaced my passenger side (temperature) actuator. You can break loose all three screws with a 1/4" drive 6mm socket and the nearest and farthest screw to/from the passenger comes out with it. The topmost screw was a Pain in the Heinken. A 6mm ratchet wrench would make it easy, but I don't have one. I used a tiny screwdriver handle and a 1/4" phillips bit to get it out. Total time < 30 minutes. The trick is/was to move that big fat wiring harness out of the way. It's only held in place with 3 little push clips. With a trim tool you can pull them and move it out of the way without damage. Screwdriver handle.. www.thingiverse.com/thing:1717111
+A. Cam Your right, I couldn't find a good way to film actually removing the screws from the actuator. The actuator literally just comes off after removing the three screws. I will keep that in mind though for future videos. Thanks for watching and commenting!
@@Lood801 necro reply but whatever, it's obvious to everyone, if you can't figure out how to remove and replace the actuator you shouldn't be working on cars. It's too easy. I suppose any reply is good for the TH-cams but dang. Great video by the way. Allowed me to sit on my ass and diagnose the problem!
The part is available at rockauto.com for $26.79. www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/chevrolet,2011,equinox,2.4l+l4,1446747,heat+&+air+conditioning,heater+blend+door+actuator,10721
I have 2010 GMC Terrain that quit putting out heat. it would just put out cold air. I moved the temp all the way up and down but it stayed cold. I pulled the fuse that you mentioned in the video. This worked for one time and went back to cold. Since the Equinox is the basically the same as the Terrain, I bought the part I needed and installed it. It seems to be working. I didn't have any ticking noise. Thanks for the video! It saved me time and money.
That is great news! I'm glad you got it fixed and saved you some money! I appreciate you coming back and telling your story! You made my day with the video helping you out! :-)
Finally a video with someone who knows what he’s talking about. Also, he tells you how, why, when & where the problem is and shows how to fix it. No fluff.
I love to know how things work too.
Your voice is soothing and easy to listen to, not AI!!!!
Great big 👍🏽 from me!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Thanks! I'm glad the video helped!
Hey how do you pop the glove compartment off?
@@UpperPeninsulaDIYhey how do you take the glove compartment off? I took so some screws off and it won’t come off. 2010 equinox
Just used this video to replace the Blend Door Actuator on my 2011 'Nox. It had been making a random clunk noise for a couple of months but everything seemed to be working fine otherwise...until this weekend when the clunk became constant if I had the temperature on anything higher than LOW. It would wait until mid-December to bite the dust.
This video is good at showing the location of the part. Getting all the cables out of their clips can be bit of a pain; I used a plastic ply tool for the tougher clips and then the cables move pretty freely after that. The three bolts on the actuator are all 1/4" with a Phillips screw head, I was able to get to the front and top bolt with a screwdriver (carefully to avoid stripping, the angle is a bit tough) and used a ratchet for the back bolt. Pretty easy job altogether, took about 30 minutes and everything seems to be running like new again. Thanks for the tips!
Also, here is a good vid for removing the glove box to reach this part: th-cam.com/video/X6Oej5LIyqM/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the great comment and helpful info! Glad the video helped!
I have 2010 GMC Terrain that quit putting out heat. it would just put out cold air. I moved the temp all the way up and down but it stayed cold. I pulled the fuse that you mentioned in the video. This worked for one time and went back to cold. Since the Equinox is the basically the same as the Terrain, I bought the part I needed and installed it. It seems to be working. I didn't have any ticking noise. Thanks for the video! It saved me time and money.
Big thanks Upper Peninsula Fun. Completed everything in about 30 minutes with a Dorman blend door actuator replacement from Auto Zone for about $35.00, for my 2010 Equinox. Prior to removal of the old actuator I set the temperature on max cold. Then surprisingly the new actuator was set about the same, or I could have set the new one slowly to max cold just by plugging it in and adjusting it slowly (prior to installation). Then the new actuator pretty much was aligned correctly for installation.
Next I had the key off, and removed fuse number 12 HVAC/BATT, for more than 10 seconds, and replaced the fuse back and then the system re-calibrated in about 10 seconds (and I touched nothing during that re-calibration). Yes, the system did the re-calibration after I put the fuse back in, and before I turned the key on, .......NOT........exactly according to the plan set out in the alternative method (w/o scan tool) for re-calibration of HVAC actuator, found on the Internet.
The GM HVAC system re-calibration:
1. Place the ignition switch to the OFF position.2. Remove the fuse labeled HVAC/ECAS a minimum of 10 seconds.3. Re-install the HVAC/ECAS fuse.4. Start the vehicle but do not touch the controls.5. Wait 40 seconds to see whether the control module will self-calibrate.6. If the system still does not work, repair will be needed.
I called my local Chevy dealership and they said a diagnosis test is $100.00 plus parts about $87.56 plus labor, about $300 - $500 total.
P.S. A TH-cam video by Sjp2727 , entitled: 2004 Chevy Silverado Popping Sound From Dash , has an even better answer to this fix for free. Just remove the actuator and carefully take it apart, then clean with a q-tip the grease on raceway beneath the big gear to stop the over travel problem when the contacts do not make a good connection. The over travel is what makes the clicking/ flapping sound. Although a cracked/split gear or broken teeth on the gear will make about the same sound, whereby the motor cannot travel anymore but attempts to do so, and a rhythmic clicking sound is heard. The 2004 Silverado actuator is not the exact same model as my actuator, but the principle is the same. Thanks again.
+John Bushouse Update. I took apart my old actuator and found one broken tooth on the main gear to the actuator and one broken tooth on a gear to that gear. So replacement was necessary and already accomplished. Also the above TH-cam video from the 2004 Chevy does NOT apply as a remedy fix to clean the raceway of grease to allow the contacts to actually make contact, was not possible. No same raceway exists, therefore my above comments were premature and not correct in this matter.
I do get a small flutter sound when I change the temperature controls slowly (and fan speed is off), but not when I change it fast. Why? Not sure. My part from Dorman is not the Original Equipment Manufacturer, so not quite up to specifications, a little bit of flutter. But with the radio on, I won't hear it, and with the fan on I can't hear it.
+John Bushouse Thanks for all the great info with your post John! I'm glad this video helped you out.
Thank you kindly, you helped me fix my 2015 equinox this way. The dealer wanted $2500 to fix my heat after they charged me $$500 plus labor for a new thermostat I didn’t need!
Perfect, nice work fixing it yourself. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
Wow that dealer is ripping people off
my wife and I just purchased a 2010 equinox that has the same issue. will be fixing soon. thank you sir you are a GOD sent!
You are very welcome! Thank you for watching and commenting!
Thanks for the video. I almost went through the whole process of taking out the dash under the steering wheel, the radio and radio bracket until I watched your video and realized I also had the knocking sound and the actuator that needed replaced was inside the glove box. Can't beat 3 screws and a $40 part to get your heat blowing again!
That is awesome to hear Kenneth! I'm glad the video helped you out and saved some time and frustration!
Mine is near glove box. Would it be easy to replace myself?
I have the same problem, just froze my butt off driving home from work...you made it look easy, I'm gonna try it...wish me luck!!!!
Thx for the info. Froze my butt off this morning! (30 deg). Instead of buying a new motor (can't get to store until weekend), I removed the motor and manually rotated the gear counterclockwise and BOOM, HEAT!!!!! Nice to have the essentials in life, Ha Ha! Thanks again, this video really helped.
Nice work with moving the door manually to get heat until you can get a new actuator! I'm glad the video helped you out. Thanks for watching and commenting!
You saved me a few $100! Thank you!! So easy just order the correct part 😊
I'm glad the video helped out. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great video. I'd like to see trim removal from drivers side and floor mode actuator swap out from 2013 Equinox. Your video stating the fact about pulling the fuse and letting the computer recalibrate the HVAC system is a nice professional touch. Very well done.
Thanks for watching!
I'm on my third actuator now. Shop replaced it the first two times. The part lasts about two years and then breaks again. Thought I would try it myself this time. Getting at the Phillips heads that hold the actuator in place is a pain. Thanks for the video!
I'm glad the video helped. Them screws are a bit of a pain, one in particular if I remember right. If it goes again maybe try getting a replacement actuator from GM instead of aftermarket. Good luck!
Finally “The Little Man” knocking in my dash has a name! Nice to meet you Mr. Actuator!! 😂😂 Tyyyyy This has been so helpful!!!
haha glad the video helped!
Thank you soo much for your amazing video. My equinox was doing the same thing and with your video fixed my problem!!!!
Glad it helped! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thanks so much Bud your video is great and that was exactly our problem 2011 equinox didn't take long and you saved me $$$$ so cool how we all can just fire up youtube and see great videos that work, Thanks
again.
Glad the video helped out. Thanks for leaving a great comment!
Thank you so much. I am glad we found this video before changing the thermostat. Saved us time and money.
I'm glad the video helped you out. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Heat was out in my 2010 Equinox. It would blow cold only but all the vents were working and could switch from vent to vent but would not warm up. It is midwinter. With these instructions spent about 30 minutes replacing it. The part cost $39. Screws were a pain to get to but a wrench, screwdriver, a flexible head and a few choice swear words got it done. Heats working and I'm sure I saved some money.
That's great avilatte! I'm glad the video helped you out! I hear ya on the screws. There is one screw in particular that I had a few choice words for also and I'm sure you know which one.
I used a swival joint I believe so I could get at it at an angle.
that upper bolt right? just used an open end wrench
+MR AUTO That works just as well also, thanks for commenting! I appreciate it!
I had this same problem. Thanks for the video worked like a charm! And saved me a few steak dinners!
That's great! I'm glad the vid helped out.
I suspect the same issue on a 2010 that I just acquired. Very helpful, appreciate the video.
+Mike Black Glad this video helped you out! I hope to make more in the near future, be sure to like, share and subscribe. Thanks for watching!
You are a life saver!! Thank you so much for the helpful video! Just what I needed to fix the same exact problem!
I'm glad the video helped. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thanks again. I keep referring back to this...mine goes bad every winter. Just replaced again. Thankfully lifetime warranty on the actuator. :)
I'm glad to hear the video has helped. That's a bummer you have to replace it every winter, luckily like you mentioned it's under warranty.
Would like to add two very notable things when installing. When I install the new actuator, the screw holes did not lineup so rather than forcibly rotating the actuator to line the screw holes up, I plugged the actuator in, turned the ignition key on, then I turned the hot cold dial, which moved the actuator until it lined up with the screw holes. I wound up somewhere all the way cold on the thermostat dial.
Second thing, I turned the ignition key off, screwed the actuator in. Then I pulled the number 12 fuse out for 10 seconds WITHOUT turning the Ignition key on. Very important. Do not turn the car on yet. Pull the fuse with the car off for 10 seconds. Plug the fuse back in and it will reset. Wait about 30 seconds during the reset. Then turn the car on, but don’t touch any dials, wait about a minute. And that’s it. If I did not do this, in this order everything was backward. But doing it in this order it works perfect for me. Just wanted to share. Cheers.
Great video. Now what tools do we need to do it? You showed the location and how to get to it but what tools do we need?
It's been a while since making this video. As long as you have a 1/4" socket set you should be fine. I want to say it was something like an 8mm for the screws on the actuator but I'm not sure.
For my Canadian (Toronto) friends out there don't go to Napa first for this part...they may be $40 from Napa USA, but at the Canadian Napa stores this part goes for $72 + tax...you can find this part from Dorman on Amazon.ca but the shipping costs are prohibitive ($39 for the part & $40 for shipping...Wah?) ...check out your local Collins Automotive parts store (Oshawa/Scarborough Ontario)...The original AC Delco part at Collins is just $44 + tax. Not sure why the Napa part from a third party manufacturer is so much more expensive, but I'm very glad I called around first. Hopefully you have smaller hands than me and lots of small tool options as getting to the three bolts holding in the actuator motor was tricky but an easy DIY for those who are handy.
I got the part for $20 shipped off Ebay or Amazon.
awesome video thanks ! have you replaced the recirculation actuator also ?
No I haven't. Sold the car not to long after making this video.
@@UpperPeninsulaDIY oh ok thank you !
Mine clicks, but only when I start to turn the temperature control half way around 3 o'clock position. Now my ac isn't running cold, cooler on driver side, warmer on passenger side. If I replace that actuator, will it help with my ac?
I also learned that using a 1/4 inch mini ratchet with a 7/32nd bit will be useful in removing those screws.
Thanks for stopping by and watching Jami! It's very possible that this blend door actuator might be what is wrong with yours also. If you are getting cold air on the driver side though it may not be the blend door but rather a different actuator. I believe there is a total of 3 or 4 actuators on the HVAC system in these cars.
What if there is no clicking and I have no hot air? It's cold outside and blows nothing but cold air. Already checked my coolant level and it's good.
It still could be the actuator. Maybe yours is just stuck in its position with no clicking or movement. Still could be a number of things wrong though. Test to make sure your getting power at the actuator.
To those with this problem, like me, a temporary work around until you replace the actuator is to crank the temperature all the way up then all the way down and up again in manual mode and you'll get heat.
Mine started doing this after replacing my battery so I wonder if the problem is it just lost it's calibration.
Thanks for the tip MrTdw! That may help someone that reads this in the future.
A year later and I ended up replacing the actuator on the left side
to fix it. Now I have a second actuator out, the one that controls the blend door as seen in this video. It clicked for a long while now it just makes a whirring sound and I get no heat.
A lot easier to replace this one than the one on the driver side.
I just finished installing my new actuator. All fixed I got heat again. I opened the old one and the plastic gears were completely stripped. So when it starts clicking it means it's lost some teeth and going to get worse before it fails totally. My $20 Amazon replacement was indistinguishable from the OEM it replaced right down to the numbers.
We have 96 equinox. Great car! I have Tahoe and it clicks a little. It has separate temp controls? Drivers side and passenger side. If I nudge the temp from cold towards the hot about 1/2 inch it quits the sound. Been that way for years. Yesterday, I turned right turn signal on in the Tahoe and both lights flash on the dash. So I thought bulb must be out but they are all fine. Left signal is fine just flashes left arrow in dash. Weird, huh. I haven't started searching it out online yet but that's next I guess.
Yeah that is weird with your turn signals. My first guess might be a ground issue.
I know that you stated that you pulled fuse number 12 for the HVAC and I see that number on the door to the fuse panel. There are no numbers by the actual fuses inside the panel only numbers on the fuses. So which number fuse did you pull out?
The labeling on the fuse door is in the correct order as the fuse panel. What I mean is if 12 is the 3rd fuse from the top on the left, just count down to the 3rd fuse on the fuse panel. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Pull fuse #12, it is a 20amp fuse.
Great video. Helped me knock my wife’s out super quick. Thanks for taking the time to share it!
I'm glad the video helped! Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment.
you fucking liar. taking off the dash takes hours The GM labor book say 8 hours for a highly skilled tech with all the tools.
That’s the easy one. Wish I can find a video showing step by step to remove baseboard and get the one that’s deep inside the compartment..
I've heard that one is tough to do. Here is a link that I use to get service data on vehicles. It should tell you step how to replace that actuator. It costs $20 USD for a month access. It might help you out. I'm not affiliated with them at all, I just use them when I get in a jam and need to find information out on a vehicles. www.eautorepair.net/
Got a 2011 Chevy Equinox here, AC and heat are working fine but will only work on the defrost setting. Any ideas why we don't have any air or heat from the front panels or around the floor / feet areas? Any feedback would be appreciated, thanks.
It sounds like you may have an issue with the mode door actuator rather than the blend door actuator in this video. I believe there are 3 actuators on the hvac system in these cars. I could be wrong, I'm not an expert. There is the blend door like I replaced which controls the hot and cold, there is the mode door actuator that controls where the air blows like on the feet or defrost, there is also another called the air inlet door actuator which controls the external air coming in. I believe the mode door actuator is under the dash on the driver side. Much more difficult to get at but still a DIY project if your handy with tools. Did you try the re-calibration procedure I mentioned in this video? Do you here any clicking noises under the dash when you turn the key on? I hope this helps you troubleshoot a little further. Keep us updated on what you find out. Thanks for watching!
we got just hot air coming from our equinox. im gonna pull that actuator and replace as shown. hopefully i dont have to pull the dash off. THAT would suck. Will update.
of course it couldnt be that easy. that one didnt work, still blowing hot air
That's a bummer, this is an easy fix if it works but sometimes the problem is somewhere else. Good luck on finding the issue. Hopefully you won't have to pull the dash out.
Similar to Good Friend, I have a 2011 Equinox, and the temp controls are fine, but the settings for all for the vents, etc are all amiss. The only settings that work are when i select things for floor heat, which then comes out from defrost vents. Any other selection, I get no venting of any air. Would this also be the mode door actuator? Concerned only because not only are the defrost vents working, but they work only when a different selection is made...thank you for any insight and help!
Hi Dan, does the blower actually shut off when you select other options other than defrost? It sounds like you might have other issues other than the actuators.
It SOUNDS like it is still going, but I do not get any airflow (actually VERY slight) through the dash vents or floor vents. Again, I select floor vents, and it comes through the windshield defrost vents. I select dash vents, nothing (anywhere)...I select windshield defrost vents, nothing (anywhere)...I am thinking the actuator gear may be offset, broken, etc...
Oh ok, I think your right. It may be that the gears are stripped out on the mode actuator or possible the mode door itself is broke (I've seen that in other videos with the door being broke). It still may be something more electronic though being the computer that runs the actuators. You will have to troubleshoot more to figure that out. Good luck and post back what you find, I'm curious. Thanks!
Upper Peninsula DIY great, thanks for the help! Hoping it's the actuator, as that seems simpler to rectify...guessing the mode door itself will involve more invasive work...
Awesome - I just started with resetting the fuse as above, and it all works fine now! 30 second fix! I appreciate your help!
Gwenn here. 😇 Great information video.
Awesome! Thank you!
@@UpperPeninsulaDIY all my pleasure. I'm a tech, was thinking about moving back to the U P. Know anyone who needs a good technician?
I have an exact 2010 equinox. Recently I noticed the AC blows cold on drivers side but is kinda warm on passenger side.
wow I almost started to pull the dash to replace the blend door then saw your video about the actuator not working, thanks a million dealer wanted to rip me off for $1000 for a $35 part.
I'm glad the video helped you out and saved you some money! Thanks for sharing your story.
Hi, I have an 07 Eqinox. My blower doors by my feet will not open to warm my feet. The vents by the doors on the dash put out very little air. They do blow some but not like they used to. Makes for a cold morning commute. Is that a different actuator? What you describe does not quite sound like my problem mine also does not make noise.. thanks
Hi Laraina, sounds like yours might be a different actuator. I think there is 3 different actuators on the HVAC system. The one in this video is the actuator just for switching between hot and cold. There also could be a host of different problems that you might have such as a bad switch on the dash for switching the modes. You would almost need to find the right actuator and test it. I know that doesn't really help you out much.
Could it be the Blend Door Actuator if there isn't clicking? My heat isn't working as well, and I have no clicking. ???
It's possible. The clicking comes from the gears inside trying to turn past their limit. It would be possible the the electronics in the motor quit working and the gears just aren't turning at all.
great video! exact same problem i had over the summer...took it to the dealer, they said they couldnt recreate and told me to come back. i even showed them a video i'd taken with the same sound! now, i have no heat! how long would you say this took you to do? i dont think i will attempt, well maybe i'll just try resetting the fuse...but, if i took to mechanic, how long should it take them? trying to estimate the cost...
+lucia vazquez Thanks for watching. Replacing the actuator in this Equinox took only about 20 minutes. Really easy to change. I doubt resetting the fuse will work but it's worth a shot anyway. It sounds like your actuator is probably stuck past it's limit. The type of vehicle you have and the location of your hot/cold blend door actuator will determine the amount of time it will take to replace it.
+Upper Peninsula Fun hi. I have same car-2010 Equinox and it's red too!
What if u cant hear no click. But blower works but no air comes out of front vents only front defrost blows out air? Thanks
Sounds like you may have a different problem. Maybe try unplugging the fuse to reset.
That could’ve been the defrost actuator located on the driver’s side. This comment is 1 year old obviously. Did you find out what it was?
Hi I replaced the HVAC actuator on my 2013 Chevy equinox but the knocking noise continue can you help? i can hear the knock twice then it stop
coming from the dashboard closer to the fan
I would guess that the HVAC control module needs to be recalibrated or there is another actuator that is bad. If I remember right to recalibrate, key on-pull HVAC fuse for 30 seconds or so-reinsert fuse. Hope that helps.
Thank you sir i will try that!!!
Worked great. Thank you!!!
My mom has a 2014 Chevy Equinox and the heat stopped working the dealer said it was the Temp Actuator would this fix the heat problem you think?
It's possible. The blend door actuator is for heat and cold.
Followed your instructions but the noise is still there. The only difference is that the "knocking" sound is faster now, if that makes any sense. Not sure what to do now. Any ideas?
Did you end up replacing the actuator? If you did and the new actuator is also knocking, it sounds like maybe the door inside is stuck on something.
@@UpperPeninsulaDIY yes I did, and you might be right about that. I just found out that it only makes the noise if I run the dashboard vents alone...if I switch to floor and dashboard mode I no longer hear it and I can live with that for now lol. I'm glad I don't have to hear that every time I turn my car on.
Excellent and helpful! Thank you!!
I have a 2016 equinox. Mine isnt clicking but 2 times now ive been driving with ac on and it starts blowing hot air like ive turned the heat on. Few seconds later, it blows cold again. Is this a blend door issue?
It's possible but could be other issues as well such as your A/C needing to be serviced.
Okay thank you so much for your response. 😊@@UpperPeninsulaDIY
Sadly didn’t fix mine. I can feel cold air in the system, fan isn’t blowing. Will try the fan tomorrow.
Could be a fan. You should have a full 12 volts at the fan when the switch is turned to high. Try testing it before replacing it.
Upper Peninsula DIY I just screwed up the getting the synced part right, got it right today, all works Great now! Thanks !!
@@rickrich7325 I know this post is old. But any chance anyone can tell me the recalibration part? I took the fuse out. Few times. No more clicking after changing the actuator but warm heat not hot. Thanks
@@tat2rodholland667 funny thing, I started noticing sometimes when I jarred the car, hit a bump etc it would slowly start & work! Did it this morning ( actually hit the glove compartment door hard) and it started lol. I think the fan under the dash maybe the bearings a gummed up or something. I’m going to get a new fan to pop in in the next week or so.
My heat is no longer working but I can hear clicking from cold to hot, I imagine it's the actuator, are all the actuators the same?
I don't think they are all the same. They can differ from vehicle to vehicle and depending their function. Just look for a blend door actuator for your specific vehicle.
Upper Peninsula DIY oh my bad, what I meant was there was 3 separate actuators as you were saying, and are all those ones the same? I'm going to head over to my local Napa store this weekend
Oh I see what your saying. I'm actually not sure if all 3 are the same part number or not. The Napa part # is 655-1655. That is for the hot cold blend door.
Yah I'm going to try to just re set them first here in a few if it fails I'll change the same actuator you did, if I reset them and it works then fails I'll keep an update! Thanks
Hot air kind of works. Defrost and foot options results in no defrost :(
Ok, how do
You take the glove compartment off? I can’t get it off
I believe there are a couple screw on the bottom side of the glove compartment.
I removed the actuator and the part that connects to it pushed back inside the heater plastic how do I fix it
That doesn't sound good. I'm not sure what you would do in that situation.
Wow I think this is whats wrong w/my 06 Pontiac torrent /////////I hope its the same as an equinox? subbed and liked video!
Thanks Shawn! I appreciate that! Good luck with the Pontiac!
im so glad i looked this up the dealership trying to charge me 800 to change out ...smh thanks
Yeah, me too. So I fixed it myself for $20 part and an hour and a half. They don't call them stealerships for nothing.
My wife just came home and said that she had no heat. I didn't have any clicking sounds but after watching this video I pulled the fuse for 10 seconds and now I have heat. Maybe the actuator was stuck? But thanks much!
+lenfrack That's great! I hope this video helped. I would suspect that you will be replacing one of the actuators soon, probably the same one I did. Thanks for watching! Be sure to like, share and subscribe for more videos.
Thank you very much exact same on my 2011 nox
I'm glad the video helped. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Did you put new part in.
Yes, fixed the issue.
Excuse me, could a scan tell me if my actuator has gone bad?
A generic code scanner wouldn't be able to show if it was bad but an actual scanner that a shop would have might be able to see what position the actuator is in.
Why the fuse needs to be replaced?
The fuse doesn't need to be replaced, it just needs to be pulled out and then put back in after waiting a few seconds. This will reset the module.
what screwdriver do I need to get the actuator out with?
+elaine stuart I used a straight screw driver to unclip the wiring harness from the actuator. There is then three screws that hold the actuator in place. I believe a 1/4" socket fit the screw heads but I'm not sure on that. I just grabbed a couple sockets out of my toolbox and used the one that fit, didn't pay attention to what size it was. I hope the video helps you out. Post back to let us know how your replacement goes. Thanks for watching!
Just replaced my passenger side (temperature) actuator. You can break loose all three screws with a 1/4" drive 6mm socket and the nearest and farthest screw to/from the passenger comes out with it. The topmost screw was a Pain in the Heinken. A 6mm ratchet wrench would make it easy, but I don't have one. I used a tiny screwdriver handle and a 1/4" phillips bit to get it out. Total time < 30 minutes.
The trick is/was to move that big fat wiring harness out of the way. It's only held in place with 3 little push clips. With a trim tool you can pull them and move it out of the way without damage.
Screwdriver handle.. www.thingiverse.com/thing:1717111
Great job! Thanks for adding the info about the screws.
I have the same sound same place . 2011 equinox
Informative. Thanks.
Glad it helped, thanks for watching and commenting!
thank you
Your welcome, hope the video helped.
Thanks
On my wife’s car it can only be set on cold or hot.
Sounds like you may have an actuator failing as well.
Thanks, I will look in to it!
The best way to calibrate the actuator is to disconnect the battery for 20 min.
How could that possibly be easier than removing the fuse for 10 seconds?
My 2013 did the same thing
It's a very poor design. Your 2013 may be under a recall, I know some years they did actually issue recall.
You didn't show how to remove and install.
After taking the bolts out, literally just pull it out and put in the new one.
people want to see how you removed & replaced but you skipped over the most important parts & just showed how to take the glove box off!
+A. Cam Your right, I couldn't find a good way to film actually removing the screws from the actuator. The actuator literally just comes off after removing the three screws. I will keep that in mind though for future videos. Thanks for watching and commenting!
If you need a video showing you how to remove 3 screws, you shouldn't be doing anything to your vehicle.
$20 on Amazon
Great find, thanks for the tip!
wow he showed where it was,what it looked like and everything except for the actual replacement. misleading video. no help whatever.
Wow are you kidding me, what you want him to come down and do the job for you.
No he needs to show the install!
@@Lood801 necro reply but whatever, it's obvious to everyone, if you can't figure out how to remove and replace the actuator you shouldn't be working on cars. It's too easy. I suppose any reply is good for the TH-cams but dang. Great video by the way. Allowed me to sit on my ass and diagnose the problem!
The part is available at rockauto.com for $26.79. www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/chevrolet,2011,equinox,2.4l+l4,1446747,heat+&+air+conditioning,heater+blend+door+actuator,10721
Great information, thank you!
Thanks for not showing the actual install........ nice video besides.
Why wouldn’t you show the install? How is this informative?
I didn't include it because you literally just put it in. If you can't figure that out you shouldn't be doing the job anyway...
stupide video, you replaced blend door actuator adn just showed air mix door actuator
Thanks for stopping by
little instructive, how remove the board to change the part?useless your video.
Useless for you cause you probably don't have a little mechanical skills, you don't have to be a brain surgeon to locate the part and remove 3 screws.
I have 2010 GMC Terrain that quit putting out heat. it would just put out cold air. I moved the temp all the way up and down but it stayed cold. I pulled the fuse that you mentioned in the video. This worked for one time and went back to cold. Since the Equinox is the basically the same as the Terrain, I bought the part I needed and installed it. It seems to be working. I didn't have any ticking noise. Thanks for the video! It saved me time and money.
That is great news! I'm glad you got it fixed and saved you some money! I appreciate you coming back and telling your story! You made my day with the video helping you out! :-)
socratese71 Excuse me asking, what's the part you needed? and how much? This is exactly what's happening with mine. Thank you.
Mah Mee EC
It is called actuator blend door. You can buy it at any auto parts store. I think it was about $45.
Thank you