Hi all, 1995 manual GTS euro-spec RHD. Recently, upon startup (cold start) there's a clicking sound coming from (what sounds like) behind the dashboard. It lasts about 10-15 seconds then goes away completely. It is a perfectly regular sound. The beats are approx 50 BPM (if you're a musician). It's almost like an indicator click-type sound but duller. Sounds like it's coming from up behind the stereo fascia, although could be anywhere back there up in the dash area. I know, my description isn't ideal but any suggestions would be appreciated. Sound doesn't return until I do a cold start again. Car is otherwise behaving fine. Thanks.
Sounds like the HVAC air direction flap actuator cycling. It has potentiometer inside to send position data back to the HVAC ECU. The actuator may have a broken internal gearbox and the HVAC can't position the flap to where it wants. Check to see if the air goes to the right vents. If it doesn't, it's likely that your actuator is broken. It's unlikely that you will find an actuator (P/N 63307200). You may have to pull the actuator and and check it on the bench with a small 9V volt battery and a multimeter. The actuator is hard to get to. You may need small hands and some specific tools. If confirmed broken, open up the actuator (some grinding/drilling tools may be required) and check for melted white plastic cog syndrome. Then you'll have to find someone who can 3D print a replacement part. Some folks are asking U$300 (or more) for ready-made cogs. My car is currently doing the same thing. I'm not sure if it's on its way out or if this is normal on, say, cold days. Fortunately, I saved up an actuator for a rainy day, so it's just a matter of changing it. There is an epic thread here about it (and other things that can go wrong): https://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/posts/144518441/ Note that on cold days, the HVAC automatics will not blow cold air in your face, but will move the flap to direct the air to the windscreen vents.
Here's an example of a 3D printed cog from that 10 page message thread: https://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/posts/148258476/
Thanks very much. Terrific advice. Yes I noticed today that after I'd turned the heating off (by turning the fan to zero and pressing the 'OFF' button), that the clicking resumed temporarily, and then stopped. I think you've nailed it. Appreciate all the info.
