Dashboard Popping Noise Check (Very Simple)

Barbour's Auto Help
Barbour's Auto Help
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Published 2022-07-14
In this video I go over how I diagnose a popping noise inside of a dashboard caused by a faulty actuator. In my experience the particular popping noise demonstrated in the video is only caused by an internal fault in one of these actuators. There are typically 3 types of A/C actuators, a mode door actuator, temperature blend door actuator and a recirculation door actuator. Any one of these actuators can sound just like the example given in the video and the source of the noise. I personally use the steps given in the video to identify which one of these actuators on the particular vehicle that I am working on is causing this noise.

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

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

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

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

DISCLAIMER
Barbour's Auto Help is not responsible for any damage or personal injury incurred in the process of performing any auto repairs done by you the viewer. Automotive repair is extremely dangerous. Repair your vehicle at your own risk. It is the viewers responsibility to verify all information and procedures as outlined in YOUR REPAIR MANUAL AND OWNERS MANUAL FOR YOUR VEHICLE. Owning and using a repair manual suited for your vehicle is essential for correctly and safely performing ANY repair to your vehicle. Always wear safety glasses, protective gloves and heed all instructions for use applicable to any piece of equipment you may use. Due to circumstances out of the control of Barbour's Auto Help, Barbour's Auto Help makes no guarantee that by the use of the information given in this video a quality repair will be made. Barbour's Auto Help makes no guarantee that the information provided is totally complete, synchronized and accurate. Verify everything using an appropriate repair manual. Verify everything with your own research.
All Comments (21)
  • @user-te4ri9gh7v
    Great explanation I appreciate your patience in explaining how to search for problem I'll be trying this in the morning thank you
  • @Eli_is_a_Lauver
    You know, yesterday I discovered that one of those motors on the passenger side began to make that noise, but it was very slight. And my driver's side a/c didn't cool very well. And I have another mini van and in that if he makes the same noise as yours. but stronger. I will check it. thanks for the video!!
  • @JonnyQ358
    Thank you for this video..I went thru it carefully and found that after turning on and off all the switches and opening all the vents it has stopped..Thank you again Dan
  • @davidkeller891
    I am a mechanic and I've changed a lot of noisy actuators but this highlander noise sounds like no other. It sounds like a mouse or something alive in the dash. I actually have 2 highlanders and they both do it whenever they want. I think it is in the temp door actuator cause it changes sound a little when adjusting it. All functions work....
  • @olenaerhardt7725
    Thank you for this informative film. I thought it is just one actuator on a car, but actually they are 3. I replaced the one on the passenger side (blender door actuator), for mode. Now I need to locate the one on the driver side, bcs that is where the clicking is coming from now. may I know if all three actuators are the same, or they are different? Thank you again.
  • @DennyDoRight
    This isn't what I was looking for, but definitely sounds more annoying than my issue. Mine is an occasional loud click near the bottom of the dashboard, in front of the cupholders in my 2017 Explorer.
  • @vanstewart1987
    Does the popping noise indicate that the actuator has failed and as a result the door is not opening or closing at all? Or does the door still continue to open and close when commanded but accompanied by the noise and if so what is actually making the noise?
  • @endurofan9854
    thanks bro, i'm a mechanic myself but havent got this yet, so this one is gonna be a great help for me, hope to see more 😁
  • @ryanculler7324
    Thank you so much ny RWD 2002 Toyota Sequoia v8 at 330,390 miles new timing belt and gasket done a few months back because i absolutely love my Rex lol but starter just started going bad and oxygen sensor we took it to Florida and on our drive back home to North Carolina our Air conditioner starter sounding funny like fan was dirty or going bad we ignored it and i heard this popping noise inside the car couldnt hear it when pop hood and look in engine only when im Inside the vehicle so this definitely helped me
  • @GloryNoel
    When I turn on my 2010 Mazda 6 the clicking starts immediately but stops within 30 seconds and after doing this test the clicking starts again when I turn the recirculation on. How would I find the part as well as fix it ?
  • @marlon9322
    This is what I’m looking for, thanks to you. 🎉🎉🎉 Just wanted to ask if that 3 actuators are with same model/part number?😊😊😊
  • @wcrs9994
    My car has a popping noise from my dashboard on driver side. I have a dual control car and my cold air doesnt work. Any advice? I have anti freeze and my hot air works
  • @mateoes207
    Bamboozled ...that's how I'm gonna feel this weekend when they show me the bill.
  • @carla5035
    How about this as soon the car starts there’s a popping noise. When I turn on the circulator on it stops.
  • @19mizzkk79
    So mine is making that noise but it only when I turn off the car.
  • @RobertsDs
    At about the 3:52 mark it sounds like maybe your "back door actuator" might be malfunctioning a little bit. Lol💨
  • @vanhelsing9640
    I got 2011 Ford expedition, it just started with that popping noise when i start the car , it only last for a 5 seconds.. What it should be?? Anyone??