Vents stuck on defrost

Tiny
ZAIYIN
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 CHEVROLET SPARK
  • 1.0L
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 60,000 MILES
The vents are stuck on defrost. We took the vehicle back in and were told it needs a "HVAC Case Assembly" - cost $1,700.00. I cannot find a Case Assembly part listed anywhere, let alone any part that costs that much. Is there such a part?

This is the same shop that replaced the vent cable less than a month prior. Over the course of 6 months, the vent know was getting more difficult to turn. One day it broke and then easily turned leaving the vents stuck on defrost. That is when the car was taken to the shop. They said they replaced the cable. Less than 3 weeks later, it stopped turning and is again stuck on defrost. Any advice? Thanks much!
Wednesday, March 11th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

I assume they want to replace the entire HVAC box. The idea that the cable was replaced and now is hard again is most likely a cable issue or one of the components which adjust. I attached a pic below. It shows the cable in question. This cable (known as a mode door actuator cable) simply attaches to the controller you adjust with your hand, and a plastic door on the HVAC box. I have a feeling it is disconnected.

If you look at picture 2, it explains how it is replaced. Before we jump the gun and replace, what I want you to do is this. First, confirm it is properly attached and seated in the cable retainer. If it is, disconnect it at the mode door and see if you can operate the door by hand. If you can, the system doesn't need replaced. Instead, there is an issue between the mode door and the controller, most likely the cable again.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Wednesday, March 11th, 2020 AT 8:53 PM
Tiny
ZAIYIN
  • MEMBER
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Thank you so much for you quick reply. Is there maybe more photos or descriptions to help me locate the cable? I am sorry I am not more knowledgeable about the car''s parts.
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Thursday, March 12th, 2020 AT 11:45 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

If you remove the panel from the controller on the dash, you will find the cables. One is for temperature control, one for mode (which is your focus), and one for fresh air. Basically, if you were to follow that cable back under the dash, it will lead you to the mode door actuator. Here are directions for removal of the panel in front where you make the adjustments. I attached the pics that correlate with the directions. In the picture, the mode door cable is indicated (number 2).

These directions are for controller replacement which isn't what you are doing. However, I provided them to help you gain access to the cable.

__________________________________________

2013 Chevrolet Spark L4-1.2L
Heater and Air Conditioning Control Replacement (Left Hand Drive)
Vehicle Heating and Air Conditioning Control Assembly Service and Repair Removal and Replacement Heater and Air Conditioning Control Replacement (Left Hand Drive)
HEATER AND AIR CONDITIONING CONTROL REPLACEMENT (LEFT HAND DRIVE)
Heater and Air Conditioning Control Replacement (Left Hand Drive)

Removal Procedure

Warning:
Refer to Battery Disconnect Warning See: Battery > Technician Safety Information > Battery Disconnect Warning.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection See: Negative > Removal and Replacement > Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.

2. Remove the instrument panel (I/P) compartment. Refer to Instrument Panel Compartment Replacement See: Glove Compartment > Removal and Replacement > Instrument Panel Compartment Replacement.

3. Remove the radio. Radio Replacement See: Radio/Stereo > Removal and Replacement > Radio Replacement.

Pic 1

4. Remove the heater and air conditioning (A/C) control screws (1).

Pic 2

5. Remove the heater and A/C control (4) by pulling it out to provide clearance for the removal of the cables.

Note:
Note the location of the cables to facilitate their reinstallation.

6. Disconnect the temperature control cable (1), mode control cable (2) and air inlet control cable (3).

7. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Installation Procedure

pic 3

1. Connect the electrical connectors.

2. Connect the temperature control cable (1), mode control cable (2) and air inlet control cable (3).

3. Install the heater and A/C control (4) by gently inserting the heater and A/C control into the proper position on the I/P.

Pic 4

Caution:
Refer to Fastener Caution See: Vehicle > Technician Safety Information > Fastener Caution.

4. Install the heater and A/C control screws (1) and tighten to 2.5 Nm (23 lb in).

5. Install the radio. Refer to Radio Replacement See: Radio/Stereo > Removal and Replacement > Radio Replacement.

6. Install the I/P compartment. Refer to Instrument Panel Compartment Replacement See: Glove Compartment > Removal and Replacement > Instrument Panel Compartment Replacement.

7. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection See: Negative > Removal and Replacement > Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.

__________________

Let me know if this helps.

Joe
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Thursday, March 12th, 2020 AT 5:44 PM

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