How to remove an item that fell into the dash defrost vent?

Tiny
TONETIZZ
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 NISSAN ALTIMA
  • 3.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 125,000 MILES
I had something on my dash and it went In my defrost. How can I get it.
Monday, February 8th, 2021 AT 5:49 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
How important is this item?

I ask because you can definitely get it but it depends on how much work you are willing to put into it.

I would start no matter what with removing the blower motor and then seeing if you can feel around in the air box to feel it. This is the largest opening and will give you the best chance at reaching it.

The air box is just a big housing that directs air flow that is produced by the blower so while a door inside the unit may be closed, it is not something that can't be moved if we need to.

However, if this object was metal, get a magnet on an extension rod and that will help as well. They sell these at any parts store.

If this doesn't work then we may be pulling the dash which is why I asked how important this object is. That is a lot of work and if it is just a paper clip, then I would just leave it in there. :)

Let us know and we can go from there. Thanks
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Tuesday, February 9th, 2021 AT 5:04 PM
Tiny
VELMA PAYNE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My metal torch lighter slid into the defrost vent the lighter casing isn't magnetic though and I don't know where the air box is or anything really about any of this, but I need to get my lighter back?
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Sunday, July 17th, 2022 AT 4:22 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,602 POSTS
Can you use a flash light and see the light down inside the vents? If not then the vent system will need to be disassembled.
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Monday, July 18th, 2022 AT 9:50 AM

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