Blend door actuator clicking

2008 CHEVROLET IMPALA
160,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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STARLORD1976
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My blend door actuator on passenger side was clicking so I replaced it and it still doing same thing. is the new one bad also or am I doing something wrong?
Dec 11, 2021 at 6:58 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Replacement is just removing and replacing. I attached the directions below for your vehicle. Also, here is a link that explains in general how it is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-blend-door-motor

If you are getting the same noise, there is a chance you got a bad one. Remove it and check to see if you can move the door by hand to confirm it isn't stuck. Also, while it is out, actuate the actuator and see if it is turning. There are plastic gears in them that break and click. See if it works smoothly.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Dec 11, 2021 at 11:48 PM
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STARLORD1976
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Everything is moving correctly; actuator is turning when unhooked. also, when I try to put it back on now, I can’t get the bolt holes to line up while actuator is on.
Dec 12, 2021 at 11:21 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

In prior years, there was a recalibration procedure that was used. This vehicle requires the use of a scan tool to recalibrate. However, I want you to try something. Do this and let me know if it helps. Also, if you can't reinstall the actuator, move the temperature to different positions until it will line up again.

Try this. Turn the ignition on for 2 minutes without touching any electrical component. Turn the ignition off for approximately 15 seconds (no more than 30 seconds).

Start the engine and test operation.

Let me know.

Joe
Dec 12, 2021 at 4:35 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

In prior years, there was a recalibration procedure that was used. This vehicle requires the use of a scan tool to recalibrate. However, I want you to try something. Do this and let me know if it helps. Also, if you can't reinstall the actuator, move the temperature to different positions until it will line up again.

Try this. Turn the ignition on for 2 minutes without touching any electrical component. Turn the ignition off for approximately 15 seconds (no more than 30 seconds).

Start the engine and test operation.

Let me know.

Joe
Dec 12, 2021 at 4:35 PM
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STARLORD1976
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  • 173 POSTS
I just got a replacement and it worked for 2 days and now it’s making same noise.
Dec 17, 2021 at 9:32 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Something is causing it. Have you confirmed the door moves freely without the actuator installed? If it does, you likely need to have it recalibrated with the scan tool. It could be over travelling in one direction and jamming causing the gears to break in the actuator.

Let me know.

Joe
Dec 17, 2021 at 4:30 PM
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STARLORD1976
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Still making clicking noise and have cold air coming out of passenger and heat from driver. Does it have to be taken to a shop to recalibrate or can I do it?
Dec 25, 2021 at 8:28 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

The recalibration requires a scan tool that can communicate to the module involved. If it is making noise again, however, chances are the gear inside is damaged again.

By chance, is the replacement part the same as the prior one? Is it the same brand? Let me know. Also, let me know the brand and part number so I can do a little research.

Take care and I hope you had a nice Christmas.

Joe

Dec 25, 2021 at 8:53 PM
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STARLORD1976
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It’s a cheap one from Amazon.
Dec 25, 2021 at 9:14 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Oftentimes, the parts online don't last. Looking at the pic, there are several OEM part numbers this replaces. However, I believe the OEM part number for your vehicle is 16451370. The part number isn't listed. The number may have been changed, but I can't confirm that.

You may want to consider a different brand. I can't guarantee that is the issue, but likely, it is. If you search the internet, type in GM part number and the number I indicated. If you can get an OEM one for a good price, that would be the best choice. However, there are others that make reliable parts such as Dorman.

Please let me know if you have questions or if I can help you in any way. Also, if you do change brands, let me know if that resolves the issues.

Take care and I hope you had a great Christmas.

Joe
Dec 25, 2021 at 11:46 PM