In this video I demonstrate the easiest way to fix a broken recirculation door actuator in a Pontiac Vibe. You know you have this broken actuator when you hear a clicking, snapping, cracking, or popping sort of noise from behind the passenger-middle dash vent. This method works for the Toyota Matrix as well due to the vehicles being nearly identical. This method is far easier than removing the entire dash cover as others recommend. With patience and the right tools this can be done easily in 15 minutes.
To purchase the actuator used in this video (non-OEM but still working just fine today):
https://amzn.to/47X0Q7E
To purchase an OEM ACDelco actuator (OEM quality):
https://amzn.to/42UVM2e
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#Pontiac #Vibe #ToyotaMatrix
0:00 Clicking Noise In the Dash
0:54 Removal and Replacement Process
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Same issue on my 2003. 7/32" socket also works. Only .003" bigger, but at least I had that socket.
Too bad you don't have an endoscope. My vibe is making that clicking sound. Maybe I'll use mine to record its removal.
Didn’t show the actual removal or fix
took out air bag made it super easy
There is a reason others take the whole dashboard off: the top screw is in a tough location to unscrew and screw back in. Expect lots of cuts and bruises : ) That said, this video helped me do the project without taking the dashboard off! Like he says, you can unscrew and screw in both screws with just a 5.5mm socket. No need for a wrench (not that one would have enough space to fit anyway). Also, I don't think I got the top screw in all the way. Hopefully that won't lead to quicker breakdown in the future.
Mine clicks with recirc on and not as fast of a click. Is this the same part that giving me the issue?
Thanks for the video. Have this issue in my 2004 vibe and now ordering the part. Won’t tell you what the dealership wanted to charge me
By it being a/c recirculate Does this cause other ppl windows to fog up in the winter ❄️ with the heat on or do I have another problem?
So lost, not any room to get the screw thats further in, vent tube completely in the way
Also you can just move the stripped gear 180 degrees around and reassemble n install it with even replacing the entire actuator
Mine just started doing this recently. Thanks for the video
Nice job! Although I wished you showed the screw removal. I am about to try this and having issues finding and removing them. I appreciate knowing how to start though
Nice job on that helpful video
Perfect repair. Thanks. Very annoying background music makes it harder to concentrate on your words, though.
Thank you..
Good job I was ready to make a video but you covered the process well. All the best!
I feel like ever car I’ve ever had had an actuator go bad. Good explanation of diagnosis and replacement!
I'm curious if a person were to clock that gear 180 to put the broken tooth on the opposite side if that might be a hack to get you going without having to buy a new part. Nice to see a video.