Hello All:

I have an issue with the HVAC in my 2008 Chrysler Aspen Limited. Here are the specifics.

• I hear a very loud grinding noise when I first turn on the HVAC regardless of whether I have the AC on or not.
• The noise lasts for approximately 2 or 3 seconds.
• This noise also happens if I adjust the temperature while the unit is on.
• It used to only happen occasionally but now occurs almost every time the HVAC is turned on.
• It has gotten louder since it first started happening.
• Around the time it first started, I had another symptom which I am not sure was related. In the summer when it was pretty hot, I had the AC on and there was an abnormally LARGE build-up of moisture on the dashboard around the center vents. After doing some research, I checked to make sure the drain hose under the vehicle was not clogged. I turned the AC on for a bit and made sure the hose was draining...and it was. I've never had the moisture on the dash issue since then.

Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Brian

 

It sounds like your blend door actuator or mode door actuator is giving up, or one of the doors is broken. This is a big job -- it requires removal of the dash, and pays 5.2 hours of time + parts.

Of course, I'm making inferences here, and you should have this diagnosed with a mechanic that has experience with a/c repairs.