Vent actuator replacement....

[gman1981]

Does any one know a diy how to replace the air vent actuator... I'm stuck within the dashboard unable to.find access to the top bolt Wich is a (removed) to remover. Do you guys proceed with a air bag removal to make some room or.you get in it from the under side.

[zbyers]

There are several YouTube videos that show how to replace the AC recirc actuator. It is definitely a PITA. Removing my old one, I decided to break the ear off, and then remove the 5.5mm bolt AFTER it was out of the way... then started with that one reinstalling.

I think this is one of the better video how-to's. A palm ratchet/socket thingy makes it easier too. A few have even wrapped the end of the socket in a little bit of duck tape to help give you something to grab to remove it. It's not in there very tight, but leverage is basically nonexistent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUKgs6VIUY0

[tpollauf]

It's not in there very tight, but leverage is basically nonexistent.

It also helps having smaller than average hands. Mine wasn't too bad to change. Nothing like the oil leak that I'm not looking forward to fixing one of these years !

[SSizler]

I used the video zbyers linked as a guide, among others on youtube.
I have larger hands and ended up removing the passenger side airbag for access to the top bolt.
It was fairly easy to remove the airbag. I used this video as a guide:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3YFvZjFDYA&t=99s
It made it very easy to reach the top bolt.
The most difficut part of the airbag removal for me was separating the yellow electrical connector.
I also removed the front passenger seat rather than contort my body to lay under the dash, and I did not use air tools.

[gman1981]

Thanks a lots guys for your quick replies. Will take a look at it in the morning let's hope that winter chill isn't to bad this morning.

[joatmon]

The last time I did it I just took off the top of the dash. Still had to disconnect the airbag (after disconnecting the battery of course). My hands just don't fit into that space otherwise

[Bookworm]

The last time I did it I just took off the top of the dash. Still had to disconnect the airbag (after disconnecting the battery of course). My hands just don't fit into that space otherwise

If I ever have to take off the top of the dash, the air bag is going to mysteriously disappear.