Clicking fan actuators

[gibbsy]

My 2002 W209 CLK 320 has started making the dreaded clicking noise from within the dashboard when you turn on the ignition. I've read on the forums that this a either a broken or jammed actuator (and therefore a big job) but I was wondering if:

1) you can tell if the actuators are broken or jammed?
2) anyone has experience of getting them unjammed/fixed for a reasonable price?
3) other than the irritating noise - what is the effect on ventilation in the cabin?
4) what happens if you don't fix it?

It's only just started making the noise and I read on a US forum that this can potentially burn-out the actuators if you do nothing.

I'd really appreciate any guidance you may have.

 

[andy@pcd-ltd]

The quickest and easiest way to find out which one is the offending motor is to carry out a star test.

The cheapest way is to just replace the motor itself mercedes will tell you you need a new heater box at about £1200 just for the box.

The problem you could end up with if it jams fully is no matter what position you select to have air blowing out of you might have it just to feet if they get stuck that way

 

[Cole@MBS]

Star 9 times out of 10 will pick up the "said" motor/link at fault. with out some work to remove dash items, can never be sure, needs eyes on so to speak!!

 

[smythg]

Clicking noise in dash

Hi, I have just bought a 2003 CLK 240 which has a clicking noise in the dash wen the ignition key is turned to position 2, it only lasts for 30 seconds or so then stops ?
Any idea what this is and how I can get it fixed ?
Thanks,

 

[Alex Crow]

as above. often the footwell flap actuator arms are broken - 2 hrs labour for parts for one, 3 hrs labour for both. if it is the dreaded carbon filter flap then dash out as said above, but i have done more footwell flaps than you can shake a shaky stick at.

 

[goodpw]

Help please,

Hi All. I'm a newbie to this forum but owned C classes for a while. had a C270 & now got a CLK500 (2003). I've had the CLK for 3 yrs now & it always had the clicking from behind the dash & its never been a problem, however I'm now feeling brave enough to fix it. The clicking starts when I turn the key to 2 & lasts for about 40 seconds with 5 second intervals. It sounds like it is right behind the upper dashboard cup holder. can anyone suggest which motor this might be & is it a dashboard out job or can it be done with just the centre console & radio/satnav removed. I could really do with getting the repair parts ready for the job.
Apologies for asking so much on an intro mail, hope someone can point me in the right direction