Mode Switch failure

07 - Heating, Ventilation and A/C
 
 
The HVAC Mode Control Switch (Mode Switch) is the primary control for the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system. This is where the operational mode is selected, i.e. Off, Max, Norm, Bi-level, Vent, Heater and Defrost. The mode switch is located in the center of the A/C control panel (item #7 on Section 7-3-0 of the online store). This switch is both mechanical and electrical in operation. The mechanical part is a vacuum control switch which, depending on the mode selected, opens or closes several vent flaps in the HVAC box to route air flow through or around the heater core, to the windshield (for defrost), etc. The electrical portion turns off the blower in the "OFF" position, and engages the A/C compressor in the A/C and MAX modes. The electrical portion of the switch rarely causes issues. Problems with the blower operation are usually caused by the fan speed switch, the blower itself, or the fan blower resistor. 
 
The vacuum portion of the switch, however, does tend to dry out and leak vacuum with age. This is often accompanied by a hissing noise from the center of the dash under the radio. When this happens, air will come out of the wrong vents, or no vents at all, no matter where the switch is set. If you are getting air from the center vents when you select "Defrost" for example, this is probably the cause. 
 
If, after switching between any of the settings you hear a hissing noise, your mode switch should be rebuilt.

For a period of time, the only source for replacement diaphragms had a manufacturing flaw that would allow a slight leak when the switch was turned "off". We brought this to attention of the supplier that had them manufactured and they claimed "these are perfect". We knew better, so in 2022 we had them reproduced to the correct factory design and improved the material to silicone for longer life. This has become one of those "buyer beware" situations as some places still sell these defective diaphragms.

 
Complete new mode switches are no longer available, but they are easy to rebuild and a good confidence builder for performing other tasks on the car. The mode switch rebuild kit PN K114752 comes complete with all parts required and illustrated instructions for removal, rebuild, and replacement of the failed diaphragm.
 
Revised 12/4/2022 - added info on defective diaphragms on the market
Article ID: 75, , Modified: 2/2/2024 at 7:58 AM

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