Calibrating new blend (mode) door actuator?

DMIKEPARKER1962

MEMBER
2016 FORD EXPLORER
3.5L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
145,000 MILES

Replaced the blend (mode) actuator and cannot get it to relearn/work. I’ve tried all the relearn tricks, from removing and replacing the fuse to disconnecting the battery and nothing works. If I hold the actuator in my hand, I can watch it spin back and forth when I change the modes, but it doesn’t move the dampers when installed. Sometimes I can get to go from face to feet and to face but never to defrost.

Monday, February 17th, 2025 AT 7:48 AM

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
50,271 POSTS

Is this an OEM part? If not, I have seen cheap replacements that have a weak motor that does not work correctly. Just to be clear here is the location of the mode air distribution actuator which there is no relearn procedure needed. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Images (Click to make bigger)

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Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 AT 10:42 AM

DMIKEPARKER1962

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3 POSTS

Thanks for your response! Yes, it is a Ford replacement part. It is the part shown in the picture.

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Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 AT 2:49 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
50,271 POSTS

With the actuator removed can you move the blend door pivot by hand to change the mode?

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Wednesday, February 19th, 2025 AT 9:55 AM

DMIKEPARKER1962

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3 POSTS

Yes, I removed the gear from the old actuator, inserted it into the drive sprocket for the mode door and I can move it to all positions. I have ordered another actuator from my local Ford dealer, hopefully this one will work.

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Thursday, February 20th, 2025 AT 6:36 AM

KEN L