Sandman67

I noticed a couple of months ago my dash vents where not closing when I would select feet or defrost. When it was cold out I would run the heater for a few minutes and try it again, this would usually work and the dash vents would close. That trick seems to have stopped working. I have read through many posts about vacuum leaks causing systems to default to defrost etc.. My problem seems to be slightly different, any input is appreciated.

Info: 2004 F150 XLT
AC/Heat works as intended
The dash vents do not close when I select other options. I have tried every position on the switch and the dash vents remain open along with the desired vents (For example floor only will give me floor + dash).

Mod (Ret.)

I'll assume you do not have the auto climate feature, as you describe using the "switch" to select where the air should flow.

I'll suspect a bad switch. You have to replace the entire three switch setup on these. Remove the radio trim panel (pull back starting from the upper or lower corners), disconnect the cigarette wire harness, the harness that connects to the three switch panel (fan/temp/vent selector) and the upper passenger seat belt air bag warning light to get easier access to the 4 screws that hold this switch panel in place.

I had to replace this panel for the same reason: I had only air selection to the dash vents, and no other position worked.

Sandman67

When I turn the switch to "off" everything shuts off. If the switch had failed closed shouldn't the unit run non-stop? Or does the off position interrupt the common feed or something? I will pull the bezel off and take a look and see what is going on back there.

JCet1

I'm having the same problem except I hear a "creaking" sound on the very rare occasion that the vent will change positions. Did you get this fixed Sandman67, and was it the 3 switch setup?

I watched the lever that rotates under the driver side dash and it doesn't move when i change the vent position ***. Once i was able to get it to rotate but as soon as I placed it back on "Max AC" it was stuck open again coming out of all vents.

THX


2006 F150 XLT

WWD918

Check the blend door?

JCet1

No I have not. I just ran a google search and looks like I can figure it out. I will let you know Thx.

oneshot4x4x

I had the same problem and fixed it myself. Sometimes mine would work and sometimes it would not and it was often stuck in the vent position. Check the mode door actuator under the driver side dash to ensure it’s working (mine was). Disconnect the actuator and see if you can move the mode door rod with your hands (mine was stuck). There is foam that falls off and gets stuck in the mode door. Seems to be a very common problem with these trucks. Start pulling the dash- the mode door is located behind the stereo. I did not have to pull the full dash. I was able to squeeze the ducting out behind the stereo to access the mode door and remove the foam. Expensive job at the stealership and easy to do yourself. Good luck!

PJ The Kid

Pull the radio and trim panels and check the mode door. Once you get the radio and on some models a module and bracket out of the way you should see the plastic plenum. use a small prybar or screwdriver to pry it apart at the joins. alot of time the foam around the mode door will get trapped betwen the mode door and the plenum case. get all the foam out and it should work fine. be careful tho cuz its all plastic and make sure the door moves freely with you fingers.

PJ The Kid

sorry didnt see the reply above mine

Sandman67

Been awhile since I had checked this post. I will try these solutions and see what I find. I hadn't had any issues with this truck until recently now things are starting to break . My drivers side window decided to quit working today so i will be replacing the regulator/motor assembly. I will report back if I find anything whenever I get around to pulling the dash apart, Thanks for the reply's.