Low vent air flow

THESPYDAYOTA

MEMBER
2001 CHEVROLET MALIBU
3.1L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
207,896 MILES

I would like to change out the cabin air filter in this vehicle for better air flow whether using the heat or A/C. However, this model is not equipped with one. I assume that there has to be a permanent, built-in cabin air filter so my question is where is it located so that I can try to clean it off? Over time, just like cabin air filters that need to be replaced. I am pretty sure the ones built in vehicles has to be cleaned for quality.

I have searched that there is not one, but it only seems right that there is something there to keep fresh air flow. The issue is restricted air flow no matter what the setting. I feel the presence of cold air, but it does not blow out strong. With it on high, it feels as if it is barely at 1. Evap and heater core's are new as well as blend doors and actuators.

2 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,396 POSTS

There is no filter in the system. They did away with that for some reason. There is a mode door actuator that goes out which can cause the air flow to be little or not at all.

Here is a guide and some diagrams (below) to help you get the problem fixed:

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

Your is vacuum operated so check the vacuum line (small) headed from the firewall to the engine. This line supplies vacuum to the system. You check check for vacuum at the servo as well.

Please let us know what happens and upload pictures or videos of the problem.

Cheers, Ken

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