Replace the mode door actuator in the HVAC system to restore proper airflow direction control between defrost, vent, and floor outlets.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Mode door actuator × 1 — 87106-06110 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds
4. Set HVAC controls to OFF position before beginning work

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box door
   Open the glove box fully. Squeeze both sides of the glove box inward to release the dampener arms from their slots. Continue pushing inward and lower the glove box door completely down past its normal stop position to remove it from the hinges.
2. 2

   Remove glove box housing
   Locate the screws securing the glove box housing on both left and right sides (typically 3-4 screws total). Remove these screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Carefully pull the glove box housing straight out to disconnect any electrical connectors for the glove box light if equipped.
3. 3

   Locate mode door actuator
   With the glove box removed, look at the HVAC unit behind the dashboard. The mode door actuator is typically located on the right side of the HVAC case, identifiable by its rectangular shape with an electrical connector and mounting screws. Use a flashlight to confirm location.
4. 4

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the actuator electrical connector and carefully pull the connector straight off the actuator. You may need to depress a secondary lock if present. Note the connector routing for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove actuator mounting screws
   Remove the three screws securing the mode door actuator to the HVAC case using a Phillips screwdriver or 8mm socket. Note the screw locations and lengths if they differ.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove old actuator
   Gently pull the actuator straight out from the HVAC case. The actuator shaft should disengage from the mode door linkage. If resistance is felt, carefully wiggle while pulling to avoid damaging the door linkage inside the case.
7. 7

   Inspect door linkage
   Before installing the new actuator, look into the mounting hole and verify the mode door linkage is present and moves freely. Rotate the linkage by hand through its full range of motion to ensure it is not broken or binding.
8. 8

   Position new actuator
   Align the new mode door actuator shaft with the door linkage inside the HVAC case. The actuator will only fit in one orientation. Gently press the actuator into position, ensuring the shaft fully engages with the linkage.
9. 9

   Install actuator mounting screws
   Install the three mounting screws and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the actuator is flush against the HVAC case before final tightening.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Press the electrical connector onto the actuator until it clicks into place. Tug gently to verify it is fully seated and locked. Ensure wiring is routed away from any sharp edges.
11. 11

    Test actuator operation
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON (engine off). Cycle through all HVAC mode settings (vent, floor, defrost, etc.) and listen for the actuator to operate smoothly without grinding or clicking. Verify airflow changes to the correct outlets for each mode.
12. 12

    Reinstall glove box components
    Reconnect the glove box light connector if equipped. Position the glove box housing and install all mounting screws. Reinstall the glove box door by inserting the hinges and pushing inward on both sides to engage the dampener arms.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify all glove box mounting screws are tight and glove box operates smoothly
3. Confirm no tools or parts were left in the dashboard area

Verification

• Start the engine and let it reach operating temperature
• Test all HVAC mode positions (vent, bi-level, floor, defrost, floor/defrost) and verify airflow comes from the correct outlets
• Listen for any unusual noises from the actuator during mode changes
• Verify smooth operation with no clicking, grinding, or delayed response
• Check that all dashboard components are properly secured with no rattles

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