When turning on the A/C there is a clicking noise coming from the passenger side?

Tiny
CHEVY__88
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 153,925 MILES
Upon turning on the A/C there's a clicking noise coming from the passenger side. Even when you turn it off within a minute of running, it clicks. It seems it only does that on the first start-up of the day. Everything else seems to be working though.
Friday, March 1st, 2024 AT 6:21 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,867 POSTS
Hi,

In most cases, the clicking is the result of a failing blend door actuator or mode door actuator. The blend door actuator is what determines the air temp entering the vehicle and the mode door actuator is responsible for air flow direction.

Try this. Change the air temperature from heat to AC and see if you notice the sound. If not, switch the airflow direction to see if you can recreate it.

I attached a pic below showing the location of the blend door actuator. The manual indicates it is at the top of the HVAC box on the passenger side, and the dash needs removed to access it. I would want to be sure before going to that much trouble.

If possible, record the sound and upload it for me to hear. I should be able to identify it.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

joe

See pic below.
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Friday, March 1st, 2024 AT 8:31 PM
Tiny
CHEVY__88
  • MEMBER
  • 95 POSTS
So, when I do change from A/C to heat or heat to A/C, it doesn't affect the noise. Even if the system is completely off, it'll still makes a noise when I start the car up.
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Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 AT 12:53 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,867 POSTS
Hi,

I heard it. That sounds like an actuator. Keep in mind, there is more than one. There is a mode, fresh air, blend air and so on actuators. When you first turn the key on, the system is resetting itself.

Since things are working properly at this time, you may want to consider waiting until it fails so you will know exactly which one is bad. It's just a thought.

On the other hand, try all the different settings to see if they cause it to make noise.

Let me know your thoughts and I will help as much as I can from here.

Take care,

joe
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Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 AT 7:35 PM

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