clicking sound just behid below of the ash tray

[makokak]

I have a 2000 4runner 2WD Limited and I am hearing a clicking sound coming from behind below of the ash tray when i adjust A/C temperature. Anybody had this problem and solve it? or any write up or picture to follow on how to fix this?

Thanks in advance!

 

[3bears]

its the 357 casings rolling around in the ash tray

 

[Reinout]

I won't be able to offer a fix, but I believe the cruise control module is there. i think that makes noise in mine. Fortunately so many things make noise after 370k miles that I'm not going to chase it down.

 

[tgreenwood75]

If it is linked to the adjusting of AC controls it is probably the servo motor and/or contacts on your blend door actuator. There are a couple things to try before replacing the component or rebuilding (flipping the servo gear). In my case, I've had a successful (thus far, I'm sure it is still temporary) fix by degreasing and re-lubricating the linkages running to the motor in the passenger footwell and cleaning/lubricating the cable which leads under the hood. These are both documented on the forum and are extremely easy 5 minute processes.

Good luck! Also, remember that every time a mysterious noise is resolved two more appear so pick your battles wisely!

 

[AntleredRuin]

Most likely the servo motor gear, as mentioned above. The gear is white nylon (plastic) and the adjoining gear is metal. The nylon gear shreds after 2 decades of use. So it *click click clicks* until it finally grabs and then it adjusts the AC.

The good news is that only about 1/4 of the gear is used. So just remove the servo and flip the gear 180 so the non-chewed up end is meshing with the metal gear. Then buy a whole new servo 20 years from now when the whole gear is ruined.

I don't have a picture, but if you put your head under the glove box and adjust the AC, you can pinpint the servo. It's easy to get to.

 

[phattyduck]

I won't be able to offer a fix, but I believe the cruise control module is there. i think that makes noise in mine. Fortunately so many things make noise after 370k miles that I'm not going to chase it down.

Definitely not the cruise control. The actuator on the '96-'00's is in the engine bay, behind the airbox. The '01/'02's, it is part of the electronic throttle system (no separate actuator).

It is a servo for the HVAC system, as stated in other posts.

-Charlie