This procedure replaces the recirculation door actuator in the HVAC system, which controls the flow of fresh vs. recirculated air into the cabin.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Recirculation door actuator × 1 — Motorcraft YH-1933 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Allow HVAC system to cool if vehicle was recently operated
4. Gather all tools and new actuator before beginning work
5. Open passenger door fully for comfortable working position

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box contents and damper
   Empty all contents from the glove box. Open the glove box and locate the damper arm on the right side. Squeeze the damper to disconnect it from the glove box door. This allows the glove box to drop down past its normal stopping point.
2. 2

   Release glove box side stops
   With the glove box open, locate the stop tabs on both the left and right sides of the glove box assembly. Squeeze or push inward on both sides simultaneously to release the stops from the dashboard opening. The glove box should now be able to swing down freely.
3. 3

   Remove glove box assembly
   Locate the hinge pin or mounting points at the bottom of the glove box. Lift the glove box up and out to remove it completely from the dashboard. Set aside in a safe location. This provides clear access to the HVAC plenum area behind.
4. 4

   Locate recirculation door actuator
   Use a flashlight to locate the recirculation door actuator on the HVAC plenum assembly. It is typically positioned on the lower right side of the plenum, near the blower motor housing. The actuator is a small black or gray plastic motor with an electrical connector and mounting screws. Note its orientation and the position of the actuator arm before removal.
5. 5

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the actuator. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight off the actuator. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If access is tight, use a small flat-blade screwdriver to help release the locking tab.
6. 6

   Remove actuator mounting screws
   Using a 7mm socket with extension, remove the mounting screws securing the actuator to the HVAC plenum. There are typically 2-3 screws. Keep screws in a safe location for reinstallation. Use a socket extension to reach screws in tight spaces.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove actuator from plenum
   Gently pull the actuator away from the HVAC plenum housing. The actuator arm should disengage from the recirculation door linkage. If there is resistance, check that all mounting screws have been removed and that the arm is properly aligned to slide out of the door linkage. Do not force it, as this can damage the door mechanism.
8. 8

   Install new actuator
   Position the new actuator with the arm aligned to engage the recirculation door linkage. Match the orientation noted during removal. Gently push the actuator into position, ensuring the arm properly engages the door mechanism. The actuator should seat flush against the plenum housing.
9. 9

   Install actuator mounting screws
   Insert and hand-tighten all mounting screws first to ensure proper alignment. Then tighten screws to specification using a 7mm socket. Work in a crossing pattern if multiple screws are present to ensure even seating. Do not overtighten, as the plastic housing can crack.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly onto the new actuator until you hear or feel a positive click. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged. Give the connector a gentle tug to confirm it is secure.
11. 11

    Test actuator operation
    Before reinstalling the glove box, start the vehicle and turn on the HVAC system. Toggle the recirculation button on and off several times. Listen for the actuator motor operating and confirm the door is moving. You should hear a distinct clicking or whirring sound as the actuator moves between positions.
12. 12

    Reinstall glove box assembly
    Position the glove box at the dashboard opening and align the hinge pins or mounting points. Lift and insert the glove box into position. Push the sides outward and snap the stop tabs back into their mounting positions on both sides. Reconnect the damper arm to the glove box door. Test glove box operation to ensure smooth opening and closing.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before testing
2. Verify glove box damper is reconnected to prevent door from dropping open unsupported
3. Double-check that no tools or fasteners were left in the HVAC plenum area

Verification

• Start vehicle and turn HVAC system to various modes while monitoring air flow
• Press the recirculation button and verify the indicator light responds correctly
• Check that fresh air mode brings in outside air (can be verified by temperature difference or smell)
• Confirm recirculation mode recycles cabin air (less outside temperature influence)
• Listen for any unusual noises from the HVAC system during mode changes
• Verify glove box opens and closes smoothly without binding

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