This procedure replaces the recirculation door actuator in the HVAC system, which controls the fresh air/recirculation mode selection for the climate control system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Recirculation door actuator × 1 — Motorcraft YH-1929 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure engine is cool
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Open passenger door fully for access
4. Prepare workspace to organize screws and clips by location

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box door
   Open the glove box door completely. Press inward on both sides of the glove box to release the stops and allow it to swing down past its normal stop point. Disconnect the glove box damper (if equipped) by pulling it free from the mounting ball stud. Remove the glove box door from the hinges by pulling it away from the dashboard.
2. 2

   Remove lower dash panel trim
   Locate the lower dash panel below the glove box opening on the passenger side. Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the panel starting from the bottom edge. Release all retaining clips and pull the panel away from the dash. Disconnect any electrical connectors if present.
3. 3

   Disconnect cabin air filter housing (if blocking access)
   If the cabin air filter housing obstructs access to the actuator, remove the filter door and filter. Remove the housing mounting screws and carefully pull the housing forward to gain working clearance. It may not be necessary to fully remove it.
4. 4

   Locate recirculation door actuator
   Using a flashlight, locate the recirculation door actuator on the HVAC housing. The actuator is a small motor with a plastic gear mechanism, typically positioned on the upper right side of the HVAC housing behind the glove box area. It will have an electrical connector and be secured by mounting screws.
5. 5

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the actuator electrical connector and carefully pull the connector straight off the actuator. Use a pick or small screwdriver if needed to release the tab, but avoid applying excessive force that could damage the connector.
6. 6

   Remove actuator mounting screws
   Using a 7mm socket, remove the actuator mounting screws (typically 2-3 screws). Place screws in a magnetic tray or container. Note the position and orientation of the actuator before removal.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove old actuator
   Carefully pull the actuator away from the HVAC housing. You may need to rotate it slightly to disengage the actuator drive shaft from the door linkage. If resistance is felt, gently wiggle the actuator while pulling to avoid breaking the door linkage arm.
8. 8

   Inspect door linkage
   With the actuator removed, inspect the recirculation door linkage arm for damage or breakage. Manually move the linkage to verify the door moves freely. If the door is stuck or broken, further disassembly may be required.
9. 9

   Install new actuator
   Position the new actuator so the drive shaft aligns with the door linkage arm. Rotate the actuator slightly if needed to engage the shaft with the linkage. Press the actuator gently into place ensuring full engagement before installing screws.
10. 10

    Secure actuator mounting screws
    Install the actuator mounting screws and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can crack the plastic housing or strip the threads.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly onto the actuator until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
12. 12

    Reinstall cabin air filter housing
    If the cabin air filter housing was moved or removed, reposition it and secure with mounting screws. Reinstall the cabin air filter and close the filter door.
13. 13

    Reinstall lower dash trim panel
    Reconnect any electrical connectors to the lower dash panel. Align the panel with the mounting points and press firmly until all retaining clips snap into place. Verify the panel is flush and secure.
14. 14

    Reinstall glove box door
    Insert the glove box door hinges into the mounting points on the dashboard. Reconnect the glove box damper to the ball stud. Open and close the glove box several times to verify proper operation and alignment.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are properly seated with all clips engaged
2. Verify glove box opens and closes smoothly with damper functioning correctly
3. Double-check that all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked

Verification

• Start the vehicle and turn on the climate control system
• Press the recirculation button and listen for the actuator motor operating (a brief clicking or whirring sound)
• Verify the recirculation indicator light turns on and off when the button is pressed
• With the system in fresh air mode, confirm outside air is entering the cabin
• Switch to recirculation mode and verify the air feels recirculated (less fresh air smell)
• Test both heat and A/C modes in recirculation and fresh air settings to ensure proper operation
• Scan for HVAC-related diagnostic trouble codes to confirm no electrical faults are present

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