To reset the Ford F150 blend door actuator, start by removing the fuse for the actuator from the fuse panel in the driver’s footwell. Disconnect the battery cables and touch the positive to negative ends together for two minutes to reset the logic circuits. Next, turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and disconnect the HVAC module electrical connectors.
After waiting one minute, reconnect the HVAC module. Reinstall the BCM fuse 46, turn the ignition switch to the ON position, and allow 30 seconds for the actuators to calibrate. Finally, reinstall the SJB fuse 15, turn the ignition switch to the ON position again, and wait another 30 seconds to complete the reset process.
Don’t panic, there’s a quick fix for the blend door actuator that doesn’t involve a visit to the mechanic. Just reset the blend door actuator in your F-150, either with a simple button press or fuse adjustment.
Keep reading my post to learn the full reset process.
How To Reset F150 Blend Door Actuator?
There are two methods to reset the blend door actuator of the Ford F150. I’ve noticed the first one works most of the time, so you won’t need to bother with the other more hands-on reset, hopefully.
Method 1: Standard Reset Procedure
Here’s the quickest way to reset the blend door actuator:
- Begin by turning on your Ford F150’s ignition.
- Hold down the blower button for about three seconds.
- Let go of the button; you might feel a burst of hot air initially.
- Pay attention to a clicking sound from the blend door actuator when you release the button.
- Power off your F150 and give it a break for roughly ten minutes before firing it up again.
- Once restarted, you should start getting cool air again.
Method 2: By Resetting The Fuse
This is how you hard reset and calibrate the blend door actuator:
- Locate the fuse box and find the CJB 13 and CJB 5 fuses.
- Carefully remove both the CJB 13 and CJB 5 fuses.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position and leave it there for at least one minute.
- Turn off the ignition and put both fuses back on.
- Turn the ignition back on for at least 30 seconds.
- This will reset and calibrate the blend door actuator on your Ford F150.
You can use either of these methods to reset the blend door actuator of Ford F150 trucks spanning model years from 2000 to 2023.
F150 Blend Door Actuator Symptoms To Be Aware Of
Here are some symptoms of a faulty F150 blend door actuator that clearly indicate its malfunction:
- The readings on your F150’s temperature display are all over the place.
- You might notice the air temperature inside your vehicle changing unexpectedly.
- The air might not flow through some (or all) of the vents as it should.
- Airflow coverage is significantly less.
- Unusual sounds, like clicking noises, coming from the HVAC system.
- The cabin takes a lot longer to cool down than it used to.
- Comfortable temperature settings are harder to maintain.
How Can You Replace the F150 Blend Door Actuator?
Now, if the reset doesn’t solve any of your issues, you might need to do a replacement.
Remember to take safety steps first! Disconnect the battery, wear protection, work ventilated and make sure the truck is secure.
Here’s a full rundown of the process:
- Take off the trim around the shifter and radio.
- Find and remove hidden screws, including those behind the auxiliary port module.
- Lift the rubber piece above the radio and unscrew two 7mm screws.
- Pop-out side trim pieces with vents.
- Unplug connectors behind the radio, including black and gray connectors.
- Disconnect the HVAC connectors (brown and gray) and the 12V outlet.
- Unscrew four 7mm screws to remove the CD changer.
- Locate the blend door actuator behind the CD changer.
- Remove actuator screws using an 8mm socket.
- Disconnect the wiring harness and pry away the red locking tab.
- Align and install the new actuator, securing it with screws.
- Reinstall the CD changer and tighten the screws.
- Reconnect all electrical connections, starting with the HVAC and the 12-volt outlet.
- Secure the radio and reinstall trim pieces.
- Test the blend door actuator for proper operation.
- Double-check screws for tightness and ensure all trim pieces are secure.
You can find more details and a full demonstration in this video:
FAQs
Has there been a recall for blend door actuator from Ford?
No, there haven’t been any recalls for Ford blend door actuators. The NHTSA doesn’t list any, likely because it’s not considered a major safety concern.
How much does it cost to replace a blend door actuator on a Ford F150?
Replacing a blend door actuator on a Ford F150 usually runs between $244 and $289.
How often do you have to recalibrate a blend door actuator in F150?
There’s no strict timing for recalibrating an F150 blend door actuator; do it as needed, especially after repairs or HVAC issues.
Should you drive your F150 with a blend door actuator problem?
Yes, you can drive fine with a bad blend door actuator, as long as you don’t mind not having the climate control. It just messes with your cabin comfort, not how the car runs.
Closing Thoughts
So, the next time your Ford F150’s climate control decides to throw a temperature tantrum, don’t let it ruin your mood.
With these simple blend door actuator resets, you can regain control in minutes.