air fow

1996 FORD CONTOUR
203,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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KIMBERLY1971
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
when you turn the air conditioner on the air will on come out of the defrost area it will not switch over to the panel blowing mode. just started doing this thursday before then it was working fine.... what do i need to try
Apr 30, 2011 at 11:14 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
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CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
Sounds like you have vacuum-operated controls and the vacuum line is cracked, broken, or disconnected. When that happens, for safety, the systems are spring-loaded to go to defrost mode. You might have cold feet, but the windshield will be clear. The clue is you will not hear any sounds from the dash when you press the buttons to select the other modes.

If you DO hear things moving in the dash, suspect a broken actuator arm or linkage. Any hissing sounds heard only when pressing the buttons suggests a leaking vacuum hose going to one of the actuators.
Apr 30, 2011 at 11:30 PM
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