HVAC Mode Door Actuator replacement

CMAK1008

MEMBER
2010 FORD FUSION
2.5L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
166,000 MILES

Hey everyone. There is a loud noise that comes from behind the dash in my car every time I hit the air position selector (change air vent position to blow on feet or to defrost). I removed the upper glove box in the center console and used a stethoscope to find that it's the mode door actuator. Googling around, there are lots of videos on how to replace the blend door actuator as this one is easy to get to. But I do not have a hot/cold air problem. It is most definitely the mode door actuator. Ford's diagrams show this to be PN 19E616B. It still functions but it is very loud and sounds like it will stop working any day now.

The problem I have is that this actuator is nestled right next to some frame structure that is right behind the main driver's side display. I can get to one screw holding this actuator by laying down next to the gas pedal. But there is another upper screw that can't be reached by looking up through the gas pedal. With the upper glove box removed, I can wiggle my hand in to touch the upper screw, but there's no way I can get a socket on it.

Does anyone know how to get to this mode door actuator to replace it? I would be most appreciative of any help you can give.

The car listed above is an SE model.

Images (Click to make bigger)

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

According to the manual, the instrument panel needs to be removed. To remove the IP, the steering wheel, gear shift lever, center console, and the list goes on. I can't make this stuff up. Ugh!

So, I am going to provide the directions from my manual. However, if you can find an easier way to do it, by all means, do it.

I started with the mode door actuator, then the IP, then the steering wheel. Please follow the directions specific to the steering wheel carefully since it has an air bag. Additionally, the relearn procedures are provided in pic 3. The remaining pics are for the air bag, turning power on and off to it, and so on.

I actually feel bad sending this. Do me a favor. Take as many pics from different angles of the actuator so I can see if we can do it a different way. Also, the metal cover in your first pic, do you see any way to remove it?

One last thing. The directions indicate the removal of the steering wheel. When I went to the section indicated, it explains removing the entire column. Again, only do what you need to for the removal of the IP.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)