The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Loud Clicking from Dash in 2017 Durango - Blend Door Actuator?

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:19 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Dodge Durango GT

Hey forum, I've got a really annoying problem with my 2017 Dodge Durango GT. For the past few weeks, there's been a loud, rapid clicking or flapping noise coming from behind the dashboard, specifically on the passenger side. It's most noticeable when I first start the car, or when I change the temperature settings or fan speed.

The airflow also seems a bit inconsistent, sometimes it feels like the air isn't coming out of the vents properly. I've done some searching online and it sounds a lot like a failing HVAC blend door actuator. Can anyone confirm if this is a common issue for Durangos of this generation?

How difficult is it to replace one of these? Is it a DIY job for someone with moderate mechanical skills, or is it a job best left to the pros? Also, any idea on the typical cost if I take it to a shop?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:19 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Your description of a loud, rapid clicking or flapping noise from behind the dashboard, especially when changing temperature or fan settings, is a classic symptom of a failing HVAC blend door actuator in your 2017 Dodge Durango GT. This is indeed a common issue across many vehicles, including the Durango, as these plastic components are subject to wear and tear.

Here's what's likely happening:

  1. Function of a Blend Door Actuator: These small electric motors control the blend doors within your HVAC system. These doors regulate the mix of hot and cold air to achieve your desired temperature and direct airflow to specific vents (e.g., floor, dash, defrost).
  2. Why It Fails: The gears inside the actuator are typically made of plastic. Over time, these gears can strip or break, causing the actuator to continuously try to move the door past its stopping point, resulting in the clicking or grinding noise you hear. The inconsistent airflow happens because the door isn't moving to the correct position.
  3. DIY vs. Professional Repair:
    • Difficulty: Replacing a blend door actuator can range from relatively easy to extremely difficult, depending on its location. Some actuators are easily accessible under the dash, while others require significant disassembly of the dashboard, which can be time-consuming and complex, requiring specialized tools and knowledge to avoid damaging other components.
    • Your Durango: For the 2017 Durango, some actuators are more accessible than others. There are typically multiple actuators (for temperature, mode, and recirculation). If it's on the passenger side, it might be the temperature blend door or the recirculation door, which can sometimes be accessed without full dash removal, but often still requires removing the glove box or other trim panels.
  4. When to See a Shop: If you're not comfortable with intricate dashboard disassembly or troubleshooting electrical connections, it's best to take your Durango to a qualified mechanic or a Dodge dealership. They can:
    • Properly diagnose which specific actuator is failing (sometimes an OBD scan can reveal specific HVAC codes like B0401-B0431 for blend door issues).
    • Access and replace the faulty part efficiently.
    • Ensure all components are reassembled correctly to prevent rattles or other issues.

Cost Estimate: The part itself is usually not expensive (around $30-$100). However, labor can vary significantly. For a more accessible actuator, labor might be 1-2 hours ($100-$300). For actuators requiring extensive dash removal, labor can easily be 4-8+ hours, pushing the total cost into the $500-$1000+ range.

Menu

Help & account