Before beginning service of the heater and ventilation
system, perform the functional test. In order to obtain accurate test results,
ensure that the thermostat is fully open.
- Start the engine and warm-up to normal operating temperature.
- Touch the upper radiator hose. The hose should feel hot to the
touch, indicating that the thermostat is open.
- Set the fresh/recirc lever to FRESH.
- Set the temperature lever to full COLD (left).
- Set the blower speed to HI.
- Systematically move the mode lever through the lever's various
positions noting from which vents the air is expelled at each setting.
In the bi-level mode, air should come from the IP vents and from the
floor. In the defroster mode, most of the air should be directed at the
windshield with some air directed at the floor vent, and so on.
- Ensure that the points where the air is directed correspond with
the symbols above each mode lever position. The air coming into the passenger
compartment should be approximately the same temperature as the temperature
outside the vehicle.
- Set the temperature lever to full HOT (right). The temperature
of the air entering the passenger compartment should now be much
warmer than the air outside the vehicle.
- Systematically move the mode lever through the lever's various
positions noting from which vents the air is expelled at each setting.
- Gradually move the blower speed lever from HI to LOW. There should
be a noticeable decrease in the forcefulness with which the air is expelled
from the vents and a decrease in the blower noise at each successive
setting.
Evaluation
If the functional test indicates improper air delivery or a failure
to shift modes when the mode lever is moved, refer to the corresponding diagnostic
symptom table(s).