@Thunderbolt I have replaced this part many times and the original from GM has the same plastic gear as those from DORMAN and fails the same way, I'd think there is a problem with the sensors and /or the system as I can see. Just google a little bit and you'll see how this is common place in a great variety of Chevy and GMC years and models.
If you don’t have new part for it. you can open it up and just reset the gears because the gears are just off track. But if you do have the money smart to buy new. At the time I was L broke co. I appreciate you putting the videos up.
Thanks for this video!! Quotes for over $500.00 for repair. Part $34.00 at Auto zone and 1.5 hours of my time and it’s fixed!! Thanks for helping me save my hard earned money!! Great tutorial!!
Thank You Cody. My mechanic wanted $700 for this repair. You made the repair look easy ! It did take me much longer to get this repair done but my heater now works!!
I did the two behind the glove box when they started ticking. (Disconnected their wire on each for about a week until I had time to actually throw down with it. Made the clicking stop.) And today I was gonna do the driver side, but got skurred of all the wires. So you helped me not feel so worried on it. I'm pooping now but will prolly get back on it later. I'm also going back to the glove box to do the resister and blower motor. Might as well just replace it all.
Thanks for the awesome video! My son has a 2009 Impala and the shop near his school quoted $650. I bought the part on eBay for $15 and it took me an hour to install using your video!
For the people wondering how to GET at it.... I'm 5'8'' and 220lbs so... it's not easy for me to get in there. Here's what I did: 1). Remove all the stuff he says to remove to expose it. 2). Slide the driver's seat all the way back. 3). Recline it all the way down. 4). Lift the steering wheel all the way up. 5). Put the tools you will need on the floor under the pedals or have someone ready to hand them to you. 6). Sit normally in the driver's seat. 7). Pull your legs up to your chest. 8). Turn towards the passenger side and lift your feet up and over the console in the center (careful not to whack the shifter if your car has a console shifter). 9). Continue turning to lift your legs up over the passenger seat, probably leaning out the driver's door to do so. 10). Lay your legs on the reclined driver's seat and hold onto the steering wheel with your hands. 11). Lower your shoulders down into the footwell, so that your head is down near the pedals. I highly suggest placing a jacket, or a towel or something soft down there so that it doesn't hurt your neck and shoulders as much, and you might want a seat cushion draped over the edge of the driver seat as it will cut into your back. Make no mistake, this is going to hurt by the time you're done, but it's by far the easiest way outside of removing the driver's seat (which requires a torx socket).
@@blakejohansen525 Glad to hear it! I wish you luck with the fix, it's definitely not easy. I'd have to say I had more trouble getting the replacement on than I did taking it off.
Really hoping this will be a time my husband being 5’4 or 5’5 will be a blessing! Mine is blowing heat instead of cold air - and dealing with that in August in Alabama, no bueno.
I was frustrated trying to figure out how to get in their to take out the actuator, finally I decided to take my front seat out. One bolt on each side back of seat, unplug the electric plug, tilt the seat forward and lift it out and boom I had the actuator changed in 10 minutes and put everything back together that's the secret to saving $500 plus dollars to fix it. Take the seat out and boom you have plenty of room.
Agreed. I'm Done. I Finally decided to remove the driver side seat. After that it was a relatively simply process with plenty of space to shift my body as needed. Total time was 3 hours including the time to remove, clean under, and reinstall the seat. Saved approximately $600.00.
First of all - thanks for the video. It was really helpful. I found that the tougher of the two screws on the unit to get out was the upper right one. I don't own one of those swivel head ratchets shown in the video so after trying various combinations of universals and extensions I tried a 7/32 (5.5 mm) deep well socket. It was the perfect length and it got the screw out pretty easily. Another tip might be to get a pair of those knee protectors from Harbor Freight or a piece of carpeting. I did the entire job kneeling on my concrete driveway through the driver side door. [EDIT] Also, plan on hooking up a trouble light (light on an extension cord) those little flashlights just don't do the trick. If you can't see the screw you can't get the socket on it - trust me. [END EDIT] If this one goes out again I am going to sell the car before doing this replacement again. This is the third of four units I've replaced - two on the passenger side and now this monstrosity.
Thank you Cody. So I went to Pepboys today because my car was blowing heat on only one half and the other was cold air. They hook it up to get a code and then tell me to know further what the issues is they need to open up my dashboard and it's a $70 fee. They say what the issue might be and that would be about 4 hrs of labor plus the part... So instead of paying them anything I go on youtube and find you. Go to auto zone buy the part for $42 and did the shit myself. Thank you so much my hubby and I are so thankful to have found your video. We just saved what they said could be anywhere from $400 to $800 all for under 50 bucks.
Nice! What happened to u is happening to me. Before, we could turn the air off and back on and it would start working. But, yesterday had my 2 dogs in the car and it started doing it again and no matter what I did, it wouldn’t fix.
Thank you for this video! I used this video to replace the oem piece with the Dorman unit. Called Autozone and gave the part number you displayed on the box and they had one in stock. Pain in the rear to get at the mounting bolts and plug, but I got it done. The shaft alignment trick using leads on the battery was cool too! May you be blessed with good health and kindness!
Thanks for making/posting this video. I was able to replace the faulty actuator on our 2007 Impala and the heat is now functioning on the drivers side. Without your instructions, I would have struggle a lot more than I did to get this done. You were able to show the important things to look for on this video and it was of great assistance.
@@rumsmuggler30 awesome! Buying the part today for my husband to fix this weekend. It had happened previously, but turned the air off and back on and it would work. Now, nothing I do will fix it.
Thank you for the video it gave me the confidence to try it. I did not take the front seat out but I felt like You had to become an contortionist at times. I felt claustrophobic almost gave up but ask God for help and it finally happened. So glad it’s done I feel like I’m beat up but happy!!!
This video helped my wife complete this and fix the concern. You did a great job explaining and the good footage was helpful!! I did a relearn on the unit after she fixed it using this video. great job! Cody the Car Guy
Great video! I have actually replace "that" actuator and the other 2 about a year ago. I can tell you the Dorman replacement actuators are cheap and they all started ticking only months after I replaced them. Had Rockauto send new ones (warranty) and had the same problem again! Finally I replace all but one with original GM Delco and no problems. BUT...Now my remaining Dorman actuator has expired and this time around I am using the AC Delco actuator. They are not hard to do except for the one on the top of the passenger side (I dread having to do that one again). It is as easy as Cody makes it look!
Heads up suggestion, use some "stickem" on the end of the socket to hold into the socket, for the 2 screws on the actuator. Both to remove without loosing them and to keep them from falling out of the socket when putting the 2 screws back in. I use the stuff they sell for tapeless attachment of posters to walls. I suppose a magnetic socket could also work. You can also easily repair these parts, toothpicks or many jewelers screwdrivers to split the part apart, rotate the gear inside that's stripped 180 degrees. I would only use new ones in this location, repaired ones in the easy glovebox location.
I can tell you that there is no way in hell. I could have changed all 3 of the blend door actuators without this video. Thank you so much. We both know that there's only one way to really get at them and that's by laying across the seats.
Nice video, well done. Anyone wanting to change theirs should watch this. It may be noted that after changing any of the blend door motors ,if you have access to someone with a diagnostic scanner with special functions , you can do a relearn after replacement so the module will relearn the door positions. My AUTEK IFX 969 will do the relearn. So you don't have to have a 5K diagnostic tool to accomplish this .
They should also come with instructions in the box, ive had to replace mine and it had intructions for the "reprogramming" in the box if you don't have a scan tool.
How do you position yourself to work under the dashboard so easily? I feel like I have to turn into a circus act to contort my body into a position where I can see and reach under the dashboard. Great video tho, really helped me out.
Thank you for providing such a great, easy to follow video for this repair. Your alligator clip tip was genius! Took me a while to complete but definitely worth the time since it saved me so much money. Thank you again!!
I just changed mine about an hour ago,what a PITA.The new one I bought the shaft was straight up and down so I just reached up and flipped the shaft up in the dash all the way forward (towards the dash) and it lined up and the actuator slid right into position to the 2 screws holes. I also used a thumb wheel ratchet with the 5.5 mm socket so I didn't have a handle getting in the way.
The one I replaced on the driver side started clicking again after about 2 years,so far the other 2 in I had to replace in the glove compartment are still working.
I have the same problem with my 2011 impala. Just came in from asking a machanic how much if I buy the two of the parts. He told me $620 dollars because he has to open the whole dash and it's about a 8 hour job. I need both tho done. Damn, I wish you where close by, you did it in about 15- 20 minutes. And I'll pay you good money.
lol, 8 hour job!!!....no more than an hour for that one. I've replaced all 3 of them left center and right actuators (multiple times).....my family owns two 2012 impalas. Labor wise... I'd charge $20. for middle passenger side one I can do that one in 5 to 8 minutes. $25. for right had side passenger side one that one takes 15 to 20 minutes. and $60. for driver's side actuator...as it's the toughest one, that one can take up to 50 minutes and at least 30 minutes and you have to remove a bunch of stuff. I recommend finding a non-mechanic handyman to replace only the defective one.."clicking" or the one that's not controlling heat or air as called for (non-clicking issue). The actuator's I buy on-line E-Bay for $12 to $14. each....and i rebuild them from other broken one replacing just the gears that are stripped out. For every two to three i replace i re-build a new working one from the good parts...saving me more money.
Just had this replaced on my 2014 impala the dealer charged me $984.06 for the repair. Lucky for me I had an extended car warranty that actually saved me $790.00 off this repair cost.
I just had to change the passenger side today,I just commented here 6 days ago about doing the drivers side. I was still able to line up the shaft in the dash by moving it by hand with out hooking up the new actuator to the battery to move the shaft,just move the shaft in the dash.
My suggestion to all of you out there is to google your problem to search for a solution 'cause there are many clips by good guys like Cody that would save you a lot of money as you only pay for the part. I love mechanics and as a DIY guy have done a lot of repair on my cars depending on the complexity. You can assess the process and proceed if it is within your limits. It is worth the effort specially when you have a tight budget. I have replaced alternators, starters, water pumps, bearings, windshield pump, actuators, relays, serpentine belts, brake pads, shoes, rotors, even a timing belt, etc. Another thing I recommend is to buy the car Haynes Repair Manual, you can find it under $20 in the internet. Even buying necessary tools is a win-win, you can burrow certain tools at Autozone, though. Kuddos to Cody, thanks again for being there for us.
Does this apply if you need the AC to blow cold? Do i need this same part? Im trying to do this myself. I have 3 kids one is 6 months old. So we need AC its 110 on most days. AC only works on the passenger side. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!! Thank u!
I changed one thru the glove box is one for one side one for the other?? I had the clickin and its gone but now the side that i changed is cold thank you for the vid
Garage wants 800 n told me they have to recharge ac afterwards. Not found one video that says anything about charging the ac so I assume it's not true???
You do not have to recharge the ac afterwards if changing a blend door servo. Abd 800 is why I made this video, that is a ridiculous to charge that much to change out a blend door servo that is pretty easy to get to.
@@codyoffgrid thanks. Idk if he is confused on what I'm talking about or making stuff up for money. I'd rather not mess with things myself unless I have to n 800 plus unnecessary crap is one of those situations
GRISMER TIRE says they have to remove the dash to replace 4 actuators (only 1 is broken). They also say the dash will not be able to be reused because theres a 1.5 inch crack in top of dash. I call bullshit. $1800+. Whats your opinion?
2009 Chevy impala. The driver side heat works but not the passenger side is blowing out cold air. Can someone tell me what’s wrong with it having the same exact problem the passenger side
Having the same problem here...the driver side comes warm air only and on the passenger side cold. I did everything just like in the video but it didn't work. Any suggestions Thanks
Is this doable without that specialty ratchet that twists to tighten? I gotta do this. The clicking has been happening for over a year for the heat setting on passenger side...but now that winter is here the right side doesnt pump heat at all, but A/C air. Crazy.
I replaced the blend door actuator on the driver side and it blows hot and cold unless I sit there and idle and then the air turns automatically it back over to hot what's wrong? I have a 2010 Chevy Impala thanks.
Thank you Cody, this clip helps all of us DIY spirited trying to save money. Do you know what causes this failure?, 'cause I have changed both actuators at least 3 times each in 6 years. Can you tell me where to find the fuses for them to try to reset them after replacing or is it not needed for Impala 2011.
Plastic gears. That clicking sound you hear, is teeth being stripped off the gear. Once the teeth get worn down so far, the gears will start jumping and the teeth will strip further until it just stops turning altogether. The motor spins, but the gears are stuck because some of the teeth are sheared off. This is because every time you open the car door, or the trunk, or turn the ignition key, the car turns the actuator for several seconds to make sure it's in a certain position, which puts strain on the gears if they can't turn, and eventually it just starts chewing the cheap plastic teeth up.
Changed my blend door actuator and no more clicking. I do have another issue that is there is no front defrost when I select it. I removed the HVAC mode selector under the passenger side of the dash. I left the power plugged in and mode the selector knob on my dash and the geared shaft that sticks out of the unit moved around as I selected between vent, defrost etc. Could that selector still be bad or could there be something else I should look for? As a side note, I heard a thud in the dash a day or so before I tried to use the defrost, as I was changing the selector knob on the dash. Thanks for any help.
Great video Cody! I just change the passenger side one on my 2013 impala and it’s still clicking but it seems to be coming from above, is there one up there or under the hood on the passenger side?
I replaced two noisy actuators on passenger side of my in-laws car. He then mentioned driver side was only blowing A/C. So, I replaced that one. After I replaced driver one, I only get heat. I know actuator motor is working because I hooked it to battery to align. I even did it a second time 180 degrees different. Same issue. Only heat. Is there some sort of reset I need to do to synchronize things? I didn’t disconnect battery or anything. Also, with the actuator removed, I manually moved the door to A/C side. I then installed the actuator and it switched it to heat.
I have the reverse problem- my passenger always blows hot. Is the passenger actuator in the same place or is that a totally different repair? (Sorry if this is a dumb question. My friend let me borrow his '11 Impala and fixing this before I return it would be a nice Thank You.)
Do you know if this is the same steps for an LS model with no duel ac control? Shop guy said he would have to pull the whole dash out and is charging 800
Wish you actually showed how you managed to unplug the worst blendor motor of the three. The hardest part I had was getting both my hands that far inside to stabilize the part with one while prying the connector off with the other, and you omitted how you unplugged it.
It's very hard to get cameras in very tight spaces or having my hand in there. This video pretty much points you in the right direction. Even a gopro is hard to get in there, and there there is lighting needed. Hope it helped point you in the right direction so you could fix yours.
My son's 2011 Impala is blowing hot on the drivers side? Is it the same problem described in this video except the actuator failed in a different position? Does changing the actuator on the drivers side fix that problem? Thanks!
@@badfish1006 There's three actuators (all the same part number)... and if they are not driving together in unison...you can get both hold and cold air coming from different vents in the car. I've replaced all 3 of them left, center and right actuators (multiple times).....my family owns two 2012 impalas. Labor wise... I'd charge $20. for middle passenger side one I can do that one in 5 to 8 minutes. $25. for right-hand side passenger side one that one takes 15 to 20 minutes. and $60. for driver's side actuator...as it's the toughest one, that one can take up to 50 minutes and at least 30 minutes and you have to remove a bunch of stuff. I recommend finding a non-mechanic handyman to replace only the defective one.."clicking" or the one that's not controlling heat or air as called for (non-clicking issue). The actuator's I buy on-line E-Bay for $12 to $14. each....and i rebuild them from other broken one replacing just the gears that are stripped out. For every two to three i replace i re-build a new working one from the good parts...saving me more money.
Lord wish we could see how you positioned yourself to get to it. Were you kneeling outside of vehicle? Failed at first attempt, gonna give it another shot, garage quote $1100 😡
Perfect, yes...you fixed one actuator...sounds like it might have been driver's side or passenger side right clicking......but you have a second bad actuator (that doesn't always give you a clicking indication)...and that actuator most likely is your passenger side left...which is the easiest one to get to. Replace that one and you'll have control of your cold and hot air...isolated with dampers working together in unison.
I wish I could do this myself. I'm not a car 'guy' but a single woman. I got the clicking for a while and now only cold air blows out the passenger side. All I can do is throw myself on the mercy of my local garage and hope it's not too expensive. Both my brothers live out of state otherwise they would be happy to fix it for me.
You can definitely do this yourself alls you need is a flathead screwdriver, a new part and the patience to dig through up under there for an hour or so.
Same part, and the two on the passenger side are accessed by removing the glovebox. If you have hot/cold problems with one side of the car being hot and the other cold, then you want the one in the middle, not the one over by the door.
For myself a non-mechanic: I've replaced all 3 of them left center and right actuators (multiple times).....my family owns two 2012 impalas. Labor wise... I'd charge $20. for middle passenger side one I can do that one in 5 to 8 minutes. $25. for right had side passenger side one that one takes 15 to 20 minutes. and $60. for driver's side actuator...as it's the toughest one, that one can take up to 50 minutes and at least 30 minutes and you have to remove a bunch of stuff. I recommend finding a non-mechanic handyman to replace only the defective one.."clicking" or the one that's not controlling heat or air as called for (non-clicking issue). The actuator's I buy on-line E-Bay for $12 to $14. each....and i rebuild them from other broken one replacing just the gears that are stripped out. For every two to three i replace i re-build a new working one from the good parts...saving me more money.
Ok, my problem isn't that I don't get warm air, it's when i turn on the AC, the passenger side gets way colder than the driver side. I've replaced both the actuators on the passenger side as well as the one on the driver side. And I've replaced the control unit. And still doesn't blow as cold like the passenger side.
Jrebar Hernz I didn't fix it myself, I took it to a mechanic and he is the one who found the leak and fixed it. He said it was a very small leak which is why it took a while to find the problem.
The Flash he just explained everything and he showed what part we need to change cus my car doing the same thing now all I have to do is go to auto zone and buy the part for $35
There are 3 that I know of. One on the left side of the glove box (the easiest by far to replace) another on the right side of the glove box but deeper into the dash, and then the one on the drivers side as in this video. Our Impala is a 2010, Ive replaced the two on the passenger side and now its time to do the drivers side. I think all impalas from 05-2012 use the same actuators .
My 85 yr old mom called me from a garage told her$1100 have to pull the steering column. I told her to get outa there. 😡😡😡 HEY MECHANIC! EVER HEAR OF UA-cam!!! Just a thief. I’ll know for sure when I tackle it. $20 on eBay
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what are you connecting the aligator clips to?
saw reply below. sorry
@Thunderbolt I have replaced this part many times and the original from GM has the same plastic gear as those from DORMAN and fails the same way, I'd think there is a problem with the sensors and /or the system as I can see. Just google a little bit and you'll see how this is common place in a great variety of Chevy and GMC years and models.
If you don’t have new part for it. you can open it up and just reset the gears because the gears are just off track. But if you do have the money smart to buy new. At the time I was L broke co. I appreciate you putting the videos up.
I have a 2004 impala, dual zone controls, same issue! I'm watching hoping this will give me a clue on the older model
Thanks for this video!! Quotes for over $500.00 for repair. Part $34.00 at Auto zone and 1.5 hours of my time and it’s fixed!! Thanks for helping me save my hard earned money!! Great tutorial!!
Thank You Cody. My mechanic wanted $700 for this repair. You made the repair look easy ! It did take me much longer to get this repair done but my heater now works!!
I did the two behind the glove box when they started ticking. (Disconnected their wire on each for about a week until I had time to actually throw down with it. Made the clicking stop.) And today I was gonna do the driver side, but got skurred of all the wires. So you helped me not feel so worried on it. I'm pooping now but will prolly get back on it later. I'm also going back to the glove box to do the resister and blower motor. Might as well just replace it all.
Lmfao. lol. Sorry. The pooping now part killed me. Did u ever do it!.
Thanks for the awesome video! My son has a 2009 Impala and the shop near his school quoted $650.
I bought the part on eBay for $15 and it took me an hour to install using your video!
For the people wondering how to GET at it.... I'm 5'8'' and 220lbs so... it's not easy for me to get in there. Here's what I did:
1). Remove all the stuff he says to remove to expose it.
2). Slide the driver's seat all the way back.
3). Recline it all the way down.
4). Lift the steering wheel all the way up.
5). Put the tools you will need on the floor under the pedals or have someone ready to hand them to you.
6). Sit normally in the driver's seat.
7). Pull your legs up to your chest.
8). Turn towards the passenger side and lift your feet up and over the console in the center (careful not to whack the shifter if your car has a console shifter).
9). Continue turning to lift your legs up over the passenger seat, probably leaning out the driver's door to do so.
10). Lay your legs on the reclined driver's seat and hold onto the steering wheel with your hands.
11). Lower your shoulders down into the footwell, so that your head is down near the pedals.
I highly suggest placing a jacket, or a towel or something soft down there so that it doesn't hurt your neck and shoulders as much, and you might want a seat cushion draped over the edge of the driver seat as it will cut into your back. Make no mistake, this is going to hurt by the time you're done, but it's by far the easiest way outside of removing the driver's seat (which requires a torx socket).
Your comment literally saved me from just giving up. Thank you
@@blakejohansen525 Glad to hear it! I wish you luck with the fix, it's definitely not easy. I'd have to say I had more trouble getting the replacement on than I did taking it off.
Really hoping this will be a time my husband being 5’4 or 5’5 will be a blessing! Mine is blowing heat instead of cold air - and dealing with that in August in Alabama, no bueno.
I was frustrated trying to figure out how to get in their to take out the actuator, finally I decided to take my front seat out. One bolt on each side back of seat, unplug the electric plug, tilt the seat forward and lift it out and boom I had the actuator changed in 10 minutes and put everything back together that's the secret to saving $500 plus dollars to fix it. Take the seat out and boom you have plenty of room.
Agreed. I'm Done. I Finally decided to remove the driver side seat. After that it was a relatively simply process with plenty of space to shift my body as needed. Total time was 3 hours including the time to remove, clean under, and reinstall the seat. Saved approximately $600.00.
It's not easy
@@azweaver9600
First of all - thanks for the video. It was really helpful. I found that the tougher of the two screws on the unit to get out was the upper right one. I don't own one of those swivel head ratchets shown in the video so after trying various combinations of universals and extensions I tried a 7/32 (5.5 mm) deep well socket. It was the perfect length and it got the screw out pretty easily. Another tip might be to get a pair of those knee protectors from Harbor Freight or a piece of carpeting. I did the entire job kneeling on my concrete driveway through the driver side door. [EDIT] Also, plan on hooking up a trouble light (light on an extension cord) those little flashlights just don't do the trick. If you can't see the screw you can't get the socket on it - trust me. [END EDIT] If this one goes out again I am going to sell the car before doing this replacement again. This is the third of four units I've replaced - two on the passenger side and now this monstrosity.
Thank you Cody. So I went to Pepboys today because my car was blowing heat on only one half and the other was cold air. They hook it up to get a code and then tell me to know further what the issues is they need to open up my dashboard and it's a $70 fee. They say what the issue might be and that would be about 4 hrs of labor plus the part... So instead of paying them anything I go on youtube and find you. Go to auto zone buy the part for $42 and did the shit myself. Thank you so much my hubby and I are so thankful to have found your video. We just saved what they said could be anywhere from $400 to $800 all for under 50 bucks.
Nice! What happened to u is happening to me. Before, we could turn the air off and back on and it would start working. But, yesterday had my 2 dogs in the car and it started doing it again and no matter what I did, it wouldn’t fix.
Thank you for this video! I used this video to replace the oem piece with the Dorman unit. Called Autozone and gave the part number you displayed on the box and they had one in stock. Pain in the rear to get at the mounting bolts and plug, but I got it done. The shaft alignment trick using leads on the battery was cool too!
May you be blessed with good health and kindness!
Thanks for making/posting this video. I was able to replace the faulty actuator on our 2007 Impala and the heat is now functioning on the drivers side. Without your instructions, I would have struggle a lot more than I did to get this done. You were able to show the important things to look for on this video and it was of great assistance.
I have the opposite issue. When the air conditioner is on, it blows heat on the driver's side. This is a very useful video. Thanks.
Mine too! Will replacing drivers actuator fix this problem also?
@@Jlb844 I intend to find out as soon as possible. Virginia summers are hot and humid. I miss having a fully functional air conditioner in my car.
@@rumsmuggler30ever find out? Having this exact problem. I assume it should fix it.
@Sassyglbeauty that's what it was. Hopefully it will work out for you too.
@@rumsmuggler30 awesome! Buying the part today for my husband to fix this weekend. It had happened previously, but turned the air off and back on and it would work. Now, nothing I do will fix it.
Great video man this was a huge help I had the exact same problem drivers side stopped working.
Thank you for the video it gave me the confidence to try it. I did not take the front seat out but I felt like You had to become an contortionist at times. I felt claustrophobic almost gave up but ask God for help and it finally happened. So glad it’s done I feel like I’m beat up but happy!!!
This video helped my wife complete this and fix the concern. You did a great job explaining and the good footage was helpful!! I did a relearn on the unit after she fixed it using this video. great job! Cody the Car Guy
Great video! I have actually replace "that" actuator and the other 2 about a year ago. I can tell you the Dorman replacement actuators are cheap and they all started ticking only months after I replaced them. Had Rockauto send new ones (warranty) and had the same problem again! Finally I replace all but one with original GM Delco and no problems. BUT...Now my remaining Dorman actuator has expired and this time around I am using the AC Delco actuator. They are not hard to do except for the one on the top of the passenger side (I dread having to do that one again). It is as easy as Cody makes it look!
I had the same issues with the Dorman actuators failing. It is important to calibrate them as directed. However, they still sometimes fail.
Same. Dealer parts last longer for this issue
Heads up suggestion, use some "stickem" on the end of the socket to hold into the socket, for the 2 screws on the actuator. Both to remove without loosing them and to keep them from falling out of the socket when putting the 2 screws back in. I use the stuff they sell for tapeless attachment of posters to walls. I suppose a magnetic socket could also work.
You can also easily repair these parts, toothpicks or many jewelers screwdrivers to split the part apart, rotate the gear inside that's stripped 180 degrees. I would only use new ones in this location, repaired ones in the easy glovebox location.
I can tell you that there is no way in hell. I could have changed all 3 of the blend door actuators without this video. Thank you so much. We both know that there's only one way to really get at them and that's by laying across the seats.
Nice video, well done. Anyone wanting to change theirs should watch this. It may be noted that after changing any of the blend door motors ,if you have access to someone with a diagnostic scanner with special functions , you can do a relearn after replacement so the module will relearn the door positions. My AUTEK IFX 969 will do the relearn. So you don't have to have a 5K diagnostic tool to accomplish this .
They should also come with instructions in the box, ive had to replace mine and it had intructions for the "reprogramming" in the box if you don't have a scan tool.
How do you position yourself to work under the dashboard so easily? I feel like I have to turn into a circus act to contort my body into a position where I can see and reach under the dashboard.
Great video tho, really helped me out.
Just tried for an hour. Got upside down and all. Cant get to it lmao
@@dancingbam4240 I just got done doing my driver side actuator an hour ago.
It wasn't fun but I did get it done.I'm 56 and I'm not a small guy.
.
This is so true.
I sit on the ground, outside the driver's door, do mostly from that position. Took me 90 minutes.
Thank you for providing such a great, easy to follow video for this repair. Your alligator clip tip was genius! Took me a while to complete but definitely worth the time since it saved me so much money. Thank you again!!
I just changed mine about an hour ago,what a PITA.The new one I bought the shaft was straight up and down so I just reached up and flipped the shaft up in the dash all the way forward (towards the dash) and it lined up and the actuator slid right into position to the 2 screws holes.
I also used a thumb wheel ratchet with the 5.5 mm socket so I didn't have a handle getting in the way.
The one I replaced on the driver side started clicking again after about 2 years,so far the other 2 in I had to replace in the glove compartment are still working.
I have the same problem with my 2011 impala. Just came in from asking a machanic how much if I buy the two of the parts. He told me $620 dollars because he has to open the whole dash and it's about a 8 hour job. I need both tho done. Damn, I wish you where close by, you did it in about 15- 20 minutes. And I'll pay you good money.
lol, 8 hour job!!!....no more than an hour for that one.
I've replaced all 3 of them left center and right actuators (multiple times).....my family owns two 2012 impalas. Labor wise... I'd charge $20. for middle passenger side one I can do that one in 5 to 8 minutes. $25. for right had side passenger side one that one takes 15 to 20 minutes. and $60. for driver's side actuator...as it's the toughest one, that one can take up to 50 minutes and at least 30 minutes and you have to remove a bunch of stuff. I recommend finding a non-mechanic handyman to replace only the defective one.."clicking" or the one that's not controlling heat or air as called for (non-clicking issue). The actuator's I buy on-line E-Bay for $12 to $14. each....and i rebuild them from other broken one replacing just the gears that are stripped out. For every two to three i replace i re-build a new working one from the good parts...saving me more money.
Could not of done it without the video thank you.
Just had this replaced on my 2014 impala the dealer charged me $984.06 for the repair. Lucky for me I had an extended car warranty that actually saved me $790.00 off this repair cost.
"literally, right there."
Lol thanks for the video!!
That little clip gave me hell
I just had to change the passenger side today,I just commented here 6 days ago about doing the drivers side.
I was still able to line up the shaft in the dash by moving it by hand with out hooking up the new actuator to the battery to move the shaft,just move the shaft in the dash.
Same here, but it didn't work so I still have the same problem
Thanks a ton man I finally got this fixed mostly thanks to this video.
Great video. Thank you very very much. My only complaint- you say literally a lot, just like these kids!!!!
Awesome video. Thank you helping to saving some money.
How would I fix the passenger side that blows cold air and driver side blowing hot?
Thanks for sharing this! 👍 No more getting blasted with freezing air lol
$1800 at Grismer yesterday. Said the dash had to come out. 9 hours of labor.
Thanks Cody, very helpful and informative.
My suggestion to all of you out there is to google your problem to search for a solution 'cause there are many clips by good guys like Cody that would save you a lot of money as you only pay for the part. I love mechanics and as a DIY guy have done a lot of repair on my cars depending on the complexity. You can assess the process and proceed if it is within your limits. It is worth the effort specially when you have a tight budget.
I have replaced alternators, starters, water pumps, bearings, windshield pump, actuators, relays, serpentine belts, brake pads, shoes, rotors, even a timing belt, etc. Another thing I recommend is to buy the car Haynes Repair Manual, you can find it under $20 in the internet.
Even buying necessary tools is a win-win, you can burrow certain tools at Autozone, though.
Kuddos to Cody, thanks again for being there for us.
When I opened the part box there was instructions for calibrating the new part. Nobody mentions that! Why doesn't anyone do that?
Thank you for showing PN 604-108. Why is the PN nowhere on the part?? Your video made that PN lookup much less frustrating.
Does this apply if you need the AC to blow cold? Do i need this same part? Im trying to do this myself. I have 3 kids one is 6 months old. So we need AC its 110 on most days. AC only works on the passenger side. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!! Thank u!
Test before re assembly............
I changed one thru the glove box is one for one side one for the other?? I had the clickin and its gone but now the side that i changed is cold thank you for the vid
I've got the same problem in my 2012 impala. The part I was given doesn't look like the one you have in this video
It looks like a little gun shape like.
Garage wants 800 n told me they have to recharge ac afterwards. Not found one video that says anything about charging the ac so I assume it's not true???
You do not have to recharge the ac afterwards if changing a blend door servo. Abd 800 is why I made this video, that is a ridiculous to charge that much to change out a blend door servo that is pretty easy to get to.
@@codyoffgrid thanks. Idk if he is confused on what I'm talking about or making stuff up for money. I'd rather not mess with things myself unless I have to n 800 plus unnecessary crap is one of those situations
thank you for this video, bro you sound like Tom Petty's character Lucky lol
is it the same for a 2002 chevy impala?
This was a royal pain in the ass but thanks for the video
At least I had a know how of what in doing
Is this how its done on a 2014 impala also?
GRISMER TIRE says they have to remove the dash to replace 4 actuators (only 1 is broken). They also say the dash will not be able to be reused because theres a 1.5 inch crack in top of dash. I call bullshit. $1800+. Whats your opinion?
Will this work for my 2014 impala ltz? My driver side vents and 2 rear vents blow hot while passenger blows cold
2009 Chevy impala. The driver side heat works but not the passenger side is blowing out cold air. Can someone tell me what’s wrong with it having the same exact problem the passenger side
Having the same problem here...the driver side comes warm air only and on the passenger side cold. I did everything just like in the video but it didn't work. Any suggestions
Thanks
Same did you ever figure out the problem having the same problem
@@topshottadinero3537 I have the same issue right now. What side is yours doing hot only on? When you turn on your AC does it stay hot on that side?
I have the same problem just reversed blows cold on passenger I replaced the actuator on the passenger side about two years ago
Is this doable without that specialty ratchet that twists to tighten? I gotta do this. The clicking has been happening for over a year for the heat setting on passenger side...but now that winter is here the right side doesnt pump heat at all, but A/C air. Crazy.
Could u make a video for the passenger side I have this problem but on the other side
I replaced the blend door actuator on the driver side and it blows hot and cold unless I sit there and idle and then the air turns automatically it back over to hot what's wrong? I have a 2010 Chevy Impala thanks.
Thank you Cody, this clip helps all of us DIY spirited trying to save money. Do you know what causes this failure?, 'cause I have changed both actuators at least 3 times each in 6 years. Can you tell me where to find the fuses for them to try to reset them after replacing or is it not needed for Impala 2011.
Plastic gears. That clicking sound you hear, is teeth being stripped off the gear. Once the teeth get worn down so far, the gears will start jumping and the teeth will strip further until it just stops turning altogether. The motor spins, but the gears are stuck because some of the teeth are sheared off. This is because every time you open the car door, or the trunk, or turn the ignition key, the car turns the actuator for several seconds to make sure it's in a certain position, which puts strain on the gears if they can't turn, and eventually it just starts chewing the cheap plastic teeth up.
Changed my blend door actuator and no more clicking. I do have another issue that is there is no front defrost when I select it. I removed the HVAC mode selector under the passenger side of the dash. I left the power plugged in and mode the selector knob on my dash and the geared shaft that sticks out of the unit moved around as I selected between vent, defrost etc. Could that selector still be bad or could there be something else I should look for? As a side note, I heard a thud in the dash a day or so before I tried to use the defrost, as I was changing the selector knob on the dash. Thanks for any help.
Thanks for the video but confused how to hook up to alligator clips. To the battery??
I’m about to do this project today and have the same question. Great video tho.
Great video Cody! I just change the passenger side one on my 2013 impala and it’s still clicking but it seems to be coming from above, is there one up there or under the hood on the passenger side?
Thanks, glad it helped, there is several of them in there.
Mine is doing the opposite passenger is blowing heat and right side air.
My driver side only blows hot air, my passenger side wrote works normal, I already replaced the blend door actuator twice. Idk what to do
I replaced two noisy actuators on passenger side of my in-laws car. He then mentioned driver side was only blowing A/C. So, I replaced that one. After I replaced driver one, I only get heat. I know actuator motor is working because I hooked it to battery to align. I even did it a second time 180 degrees different. Same issue. Only heat. Is there some sort of reset I need to do to synchronize things? I didn’t disconnect battery or anything. Also, with the actuator removed, I manually moved the door to A/C side. I then installed the actuator and it switched it to heat.
Thank you for sharing
I have the reverse problem- my passenger always blows hot. Is the passenger actuator in the same place or is that a totally different repair? (Sorry if this is a dumb question. My friend let me borrow his '11 Impala and fixing this before I return it would be a nice Thank You.)
Thanks for the help!
Do you know if this is the same steps for an LS model with no duel ac control? Shop guy said he would have to pull the whole dash out and is charging 800
Thank you soo much for the info.
What if I don't have the old actuator?
Both mine blowing out not hot but cool air do u have any idea what it mite b?
Wish you actually showed how you managed to unplug the worst blendor motor of the three. The hardest part I had was getting both my hands that far inside to stabilize the part with one while prying the connector off with the other, and you omitted how you unplugged it.
It's very hard to get cameras in very tight spaces or having my hand in there. This video pretty much points you in the right direction. Even a gopro is hard to get in there, and there there is lighting needed. Hope it helped point you in the right direction so you could fix yours.
Does the plug just pull out or does it unclick somehow?
Location of the passenger side blend door ?
I heard theres two kinds of actuator's . How about the 1 for the mode door?
There are three of them, and all 3 of them use the exact same part.
Is this the same process for the 97-03 grand Prix she?? I'm having the same issue
Mines is vice versa
What if it work backwards my driver side blow heat other side don’t blow heat
same shit. blend door actuator on passenger side
There's 1 on the driver side and 2 on the passenger side
I have the same problem with 2013 armada. I change the actuators and still give cold air passenger side . Any idea ?
Any luck?
Jesse Hernandez nope still same. The mechanic say there is a lot of different actuators
@@Shane23Armada sorry about that, luckily all mine was the actuator in the glove box.
Same problem. Same loud clicking noise. And only cold air but from passengers side. Is it the same process?
Pretty much. That one, you have to remove the glovebox to get to. There are videos, just look up 'impala blend door passenger side' ...
What if this happening but on the passengers side?
for the dorman air door actuator. Is there two different ones or the driver and passenger sides?
Same one for passenger or driver side.
My son's 2011 Impala is blowing hot on the drivers side? Is it the same problem described in this video except the actuator failed in a different position? Does changing the actuator on the drivers side fix that problem? Thanks!
Yes just did mine with same issue
So the one actuator controls both passenger and driver side? Or are there two?
@@badfish1006 There's three actuators (all the same part number)... and if they are not driving together in unison...you can get both hold and cold air coming from different vents in the car.
I've replaced all 3 of them left, center and right actuators (multiple times).....my family owns two 2012 impalas. Labor wise... I'd charge $20. for middle passenger side one I can do that one in 5 to 8 minutes. $25. for right-hand side passenger side one that one takes 15 to 20 minutes. and $60. for driver's side actuator...as it's the toughest one, that one can take up to 50 minutes and at least 30 minutes and you have to remove a bunch of stuff. I recommend finding a non-mechanic handyman to replace only the defective one.."clicking" or the one that's not controlling heat or air as called for (non-clicking issue). The actuator's I buy on-line E-Bay for $12 to $14. each....and i rebuild them from other broken one replacing just the gears that are stripped out. For every two to three i replace i re-build a new working one from the good parts...saving me more money.
That is hell to fool with
Lord wish we could see how you positioned yourself to get to it. Were you kneeling outside of vehicle? Failed at first attempt, gonna give it another shot, garage quote $1100 😡
My problem is trying to position myself
Tell me about it. Been at this 3 hours now and no where near being done. Can't figure out how to position myself.
the actuator was changed, the clicking stopped but it still blows cold air...???
I’m afraid if I go through all this and replace the same may happen
Perfect, yes...you fixed one actuator...sounds like it might have been driver's side or passenger side right clicking......but you have a second bad actuator (that doesn't always give you a clicking indication)...and that actuator most likely is your passenger side left...which is the easiest one to get to. Replace that one and you'll have control of your cold and hot air...isolated with dampers working together in unison.
If you changed the actuators and ALL the air is cold, you could have a clogged or bad heater core.
I wish I could do this myself. I'm not a car 'guy' but a single woman. I got the clicking for a while and now only cold air blows out the passenger side. All I can do is throw myself on the mercy of my local garage and hope it's not too expensive. Both my brothers live out of state otherwise they would be happy to fix it for me.
You can definitely do this yourself alls you need is a flathead screwdriver, a new part and the patience to dig through up under there for an hour or so.
Lmao none of us are car guys that’s why we here. You can do it it ain’t a man thing 😂
Is it the same for the passenger side?
Same part, and the two on the passenger side are accessed by removing the glovebox. If you have hot/cold problems with one side of the car being hot and the other cold, then you want the one in the middle, not the one over by the door.
Is this the same or similar for the passenger side?
Yes it can be for either side.
Thank you! We’re having this issue with my car on the passenger side
How much do you think a mechanic would charge for a job like that?
Depends how much of a thief he is. ......$500.00
For myself a non-mechanic: I've replaced all 3 of them left center and right actuators (multiple times).....my family owns two 2012 impalas. Labor wise... I'd charge $20. for middle passenger side one I can do that one in 5 to 8 minutes. $25. for right had side passenger side one that one takes 15 to 20 minutes. and $60. for driver's side actuator...as it's the toughest one, that one can take up to 50 minutes and at least 30 minutes and you have to remove a bunch of stuff. I recommend finding a non-mechanic handyman to replace only the defective one.."clicking" or the one that's not controlling heat or air as called for (non-clicking issue). The actuator's I buy on-line E-Bay for $12 to $14. each....and i rebuild them from other broken one replacing just the gears that are stripped out. For every two to three i replace i re-build a new working one from the good parts...saving me more money.
What actuator requires removing dash?
I have been able to get to them WITHOUT removing the dash!
@@CodytheCarGuy all 4 of them without removing dash?
What are you alligator clips attached too, to allow you to move the actuator position?
I used the cars battery, just don't go too far just get it close to the right position.
I guess I don’t understand what you need the clips for? Didn’t get the understanding from the video.
to position the shaft to line up with cam.
Do you have to do this?
Ok, my problem isn't that I don't get warm air, it's when i turn on the AC, the passenger side gets way colder than the driver side. I've replaced both the actuators on the passenger side as well as the one on the driver side. And I've replaced the control unit. And still doesn't blow as cold like the passenger side.
tiemishuu101 i got the same problem .but i guess the man just ignore u. Lol
Jrebar Hernz it's cool, I found out that I didn't have enough freon, cuz there was a leak at the service port.
Jrebar Hernz I didn't fix it myself, I took it to a mechanic and he is the one who found the leak and fixed it. He said it was a very small leak which is why it took a while to find the problem.
what would cause both sides to blow cold? Is there a "primary" actuator that could be bad?
Yes the outside air valve behind the glovebox.
Niiiiice!!!!
What about the blend door mode actuator I hear there’s four actuators total not three any truth to this
That's true 4
People wanted $500 to do...wow not even two hours of work
What if it’s not blowing cold it’s just blowing no heat just air
My car blowing cool air on drive side why????
The Flash he just explained everything and he showed what part we need to change cus my car doing the same thing now all I have to do is go to auto zone and buy the part for $35
2011 is on the other side glove box.
There are 3 that I know of. One on the left side of the glove box (the easiest by far to replace) another on the right side of the glove box but deeper into the dash, and then the one on the drivers side as in this video.
Our Impala is a 2010, Ive replaced the two on the passenger side and now its time to do the drivers side.
I think all impalas from 05-2012 use the same actuators .
Put the new one in now my air doesn’t work at all WHAT DID I DO??
You don’t rest
take the part back before the warranty ends and try another
My 85 yr old mom called me from a garage told her$1100 have to pull the steering column. I told her to get outa there. 😡😡😡 HEY MECHANIC! EVER HEAR OF UA-cam!!! Just a thief. I’ll know for sure when I tackle it. $20 on eBay
D