How to Perform a Blend Door Actuator Reset (Step by Step)

A blend door actuator reset is often done after it has been replaced due to a mechanical or electrical fault.

Generally, performing a blend door actuator reset on a car involves taking out the fuse that supplies power to the HVAC control module and turning ON the car.

Firstly, the HVAC cycle must be completed from full hot to full cold, followed by turning OFF the vehicle and reinstalling the fuse. Turn on the car to enable the blend door actuator to calibrate.

This article properly explains how to properly perform a blend door actuator reset. It also contains answers to other questions you might have about a blend door actuator reset.

How Do You Reset Blend Door Actuator (Blend Blend Door Actuator Reset)

Integrated in a compact assembly, the blend door actuator consists of a worm gear, a small motor, and a set of pinion gears that connect the geared shaft and the motor output, which controls the system.

If the temperature setting is changed on the dashboard, it merges the air from the evaporator and heater and moves them into the cabin.

A pair of the copper fingers located at the back of the output shaft connects with copper tracks at the actuator’s cover surface.

They record the blend door position, and this info is sent to the climate control module. This module Continues to send the signal to the motor based on the selected temperature setting.

Here are the steps to perform a blend door actuator reset

Step 1: Access the Actuator Assembly

Based on the type of vehicle, it is possible to have one or two blend doors on the passenger and driver sides. These can be found at the back of the radio setup, which is located in the center of the dashboard.

Firstly, take out the center console by taking out two bolts on the side; this should be followed by taking out the electrical connections, the shifter, and the connections associated with transmission.

Then, finally, take out the stereo/radio unit alongside the wiring. After this, you’ll get to the actuator assembly.

Ensure the damaged one is inspected by putting on the vehicle’s climate control system and examining the air on the passenger and driver’s side.

Replace the defective device with a good one if the electrical connections are loose or when it has an obvious physical fault.

Step 2: Align the Actuator’s Output Shaft Gears

For the actuator’s output shaft to move, its gear alignment is crucial.

Spin the gears using your hands till they are properly aligned, and you notice that the movement is smooth. Not aligning them properly can lead to the breaking of the gear teeth.

Step 3: Disconnect the Power

Find the location of the fuse box and take the fuse out of the HVAC control module. Each number can be seen through electrical drawings based on the model of your car.

Most times, the fuse number could be No 15 or No 42. It is also possible to disengage the power terminal of the battery through an electronic board responsible for controlling the climate system.

This is also important for safety reasons when carrying out maintenance to avert electric shock.

Step 4: Start the Car

When you disconnect the power connected with the climate control module, switch on your vehicle using the stop or start switch or ignition key.

After this, the HAVC system can be turned on within the vehicle.

Step 5: Tuen on the AC

Use the selector switch or the function knob on the dashboard to turn on the HAVC system.

Switch the features from hot setting to cold to finalize the cycle. Put off your vehicle and connect the fuse

After 2 to 3 minutes:

1. Put OFF your vehicle
2. Connect the fuse that is inside the junction box again.
3. Test the continuity with a multimeter and the HVAC module’s voltage.

Step 6: Calibrate the Blend Door Actuator

Start your vehicle and notice the motion in the blend door actuator. Depending on the signals from the HVAC control module, it regulates the position in less than 30 to 40 seconds.

It is possible to look for the operational function by feeling the air from the vents and altering the temperature settings. The changes will occur at the end of each function after at least 2 to 3 minutes.

Once the process is complete, replace all the items you removed during this process in reverse order.

Check out this video for more tips on how to reset the blend door actuator

When Do You Need to Reset the Blend Door Actuator?

There are different reasons for resetting the blend door actuator assembly. When you perform a blend door actuator reset, the device returns to its original calibration after being fixed or replaced.

Here are a few reasons why you will need a blend door actuator reset

1. After You Install a New Actuator

The blend door actuator possesses a compact assembly alongside many plastic gears. Unfortunately, as time goes on, they get faulty, leading to bad operation.

Hence, taking out the whole assembly totally and replacing it is important. Nevertheless, this is not an expensive part because of the small size and simple design.

After replacing the blend door actuator, performing a blend door reset is needed to regulate the position as this affects the entire operation of the HVAC system.

2. When It Is Out of Calibration

Whenever you disconnect the power of the HVAC system module, regardless of the purpose, the air duct control module must be recalibrated to modify it to its rightful position.

This module usually does the calibration by itself during the ignition cycle. Regardless, it is important for the actuator assembly to be reset to finalize the process or when you repeatedly hear the sounds or clicks.

3. When It Has a Mechanical/Electrical Fault

The gear of the actuators is usually small in size, and you need to exert force to shift the door of the HVAC duct based on the settings selected inside the driver’s cabin.

Therefore, with time they get worn out and get stuck. You need to perform a blend door actuator reset to get them unstuck.

Additionally, a power glitch or wrong setting can cause its motor to go over the limit, and this causes a fault that a blend door actuator reset can fix.

Furthermore, contact between the tracing pins on the back of the output shaft and tracks could be lost due to mechanical issues or damage.

This can lead to losing the motor’s position, which will require resetting.

Also Read: Where Is The Blend Door Actuator Located?

Is the Blend Door Actuator Reset Procedure the Same for All Cars?

Blend door actuator assemblies for different car models do not differ significantly.

Though there’s a small difference in the way its package is modified physically and the removal process. Their functions, however, are similar.

As a result, they have a similar system for resetting and calibrating. However, locating the damaged blend door requires careful measures for models with two blend doors.

How to Test the Blend Door Actuator?

It’s important to examine or inform your mechanic to perform a blend door actuator reset when you notice any bad blend door actuator symptoms, such as an inconsistent or wrong temperature, clicking sound or sound beneath the dashboard, or knocking sound below the dashboard.

In most blend door actuators, the heater flap at the back of the glove box can be opened and closed to adjust the temperature and airflow.

For you to test the blend door actuator, disconnect the vehicle’s negative terminal. If the vehicle has a radio code, write it down, or you can just carry out the calibration.

You can decide to take the car to your mechanic when you do not have the calibration machine.

An issue with the blend door motor might be causing the heater to blow cool air. When this is noticed, you should examine the hoses of the heater.

It is an obvious sign of a bad blend door actuator if the hose is hot, which should be rectified immediately. After that, you should locate the actuator; they are normally close to the heater box or under the glove box.

At this point, you’ll need a helping hand to assist you in changing the temperature of the climate in different modes while you keep an eye on the movement.

If the blend door does not move when you change the climate temperature in various modes, it means the actuator is damaged and needs to be replaced.

The blend door and the linkage need to be examined. If they are damaged, they can lead to similar problems. When this happens, you will have to seek professional help.

How Much Does It Cost to Reset a Blend Door Actuator

Depending on the model and brand of your vehicle, the parts cost around $20 to $40. The service cost could be around $75 to $100, depending on the nature of the problem.

When you take your car to a mechanic or a workshop to fix the clicking/stuck blend door motor, you’ll be required to pay a substantial amount.

Taking out the radio, shifter, center console, and the rest of the dashboard will take around 1 hour to achieve.

Also Read: Blend Door Actuator Replacement (Cost & Steps)

Frequently Asked Questions – Blend Door Actuator Reset