HVAC knob changes multiple degrees/windpseeds/modes with one click

Discussion in 'Prius v Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by xqk13, Jul 5, 2021.

  1. xqk13

    xqk13 New Member

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    Just got my 2016 Prius V and the HVAC knob started to act weirdly after a few days. When I turn the knob clockwise one click, it would have the same effect of turning it two or three clicks in all three adjustments. It behaves normally when turned counterclockwise. Have anyone experienced this issue and would this be an expensive fix? Thanks.
     
    #1 xqk13, Jul 5, 2021
  2. MrZap

    MrZap Junior Member

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    Three Touring
    The way the knob works is there are gear tooth like shapes on the inside of the knob that stroke a three position momentary switch (spring returned to centre). The switch has a little triangle on it as the switch actuator. Maybe not a very good explanation but .......

    This has not happened to me but I'd guess something wrong mechanically with the switch. Like spilled coffee or other contaminant. Or maybe the little triangle is worn? Trouble is, I don't think the knob can be removed from the AC controller. If I'm right, you will need to remove the AC control unit from the car and then it is pretty easy to take it apart or if necessary buy a new one from the wrecker. Getting the AC unit out requires first removing the radio. On a thread about radio upgrades, there is some info posted that might be useful here.
     
    #2 MrZap, Jul 5, 2021
    Tim Jones and xqk13 like this.
  3. xqk13

    xqk13 New Member

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    Thanks for the explanation! It is clear enough. Also thanks for the link, I will check it out, hopefully not too much of a hassle.
     
    #3 xqk13, Jul 5, 2021
  4. Tim Jones

    Tim Jones Senior Member

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    Did you ever find out anything about this?
     
    #4 Tim Jones, Jul 20, 2021
  5. xqk13

    xqk13 New Member

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    I bought an used HVAC control module (the assembly below the head unit) and plan to put it on. My current one works ok though, so I’m not in a hurry to put the new one in. Bought it just in case because 15-17 parts are way rarer than 12-14 parts.
     
    #5 xqk13, Jul 20, 2021
  6. Tim Jones

    Tim Jones Senior Member

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    Mine still works but I'm pretty easy on the dial.... good to have the other one cause it could go out at any time.
     
    #6 Tim Jones, Jul 20, 2021
  7. xqk13

    xqk13 New Member

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    I wonder what “broke” mine, I’m very easy on the dial so I would think it’s the previous owner.
     
    #7 xqk13, Jul 20, 2021
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