Dual Zone Problem on 2010 VX

[Mittzy Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Mittzy]

Hi All,
I have a 2010 VX with a dual zone temperature control problem.
The issue in winter only as the drivers side only will not get warm air whilst the passenger can enjoy full heat.
Currently I close off the drivers side vents and direct the warm air from the passenger side to me but that does not help my feet getting cold.
The Left side top vent will rise up to 38 Dec C whereas the right side will be 10 - 12 Dec C cooler.

Has anyone experienced this with the dual zone on the Prado before?
I just know that if I drop it off at the dealer I will be in for a small fortune so a want to be prepared for that or if there is a simple fix that would be great.
Thanks in advance.

Tony

[Mittzy Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Mittzy]

More Info - It has thrown an error code previously B1497 and had the A/C amplifier and control motor replaced 4 years ago.

[Mittzy Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Mittzy]

Nothing eh?

[Mr ok Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Mr ok]

The problem may be related to the previous issue. Looking at the B1497 code I do wonder why a control motor was replaced and it would be good to know which one it was. The B1497 code points towards replacing the amplifier or wiring harness assembly, no control motors should have been looked at. The code B1457 looks like the issue you are now having. B1457 points to maybe an issue with the amplifier, the drivers side air mix servo or the wiring harness assembly. Maybe this was the same issue as before but the code number mentioned was wrong?
Below are links to some details regarding those codes.
http://www.moranbahweather.com/toyot...02llq008x.html
http://www.moranbahweather.com/toyot...2sls008x.html#

Since you can't plug into the car's computer. I suggest you look at the hint suggested in that document "Confirm that no mechanical problem is present because this trouble code can be output when either a damper link or damper is mechanically locked"

I have attached a photo showing where i think you should be looking, under the dash on the drivers side. The black box will be the servo and the linkages are contained within the unit it is bolted to. You can look at the mechanism for movement when adjusting the temperature with the car idling and your air con blowing out of the bottom vent so you can feel a temperature change. When adjusting the temperature dial, look through the little hole in the white plastic unit that the servo bolts to, at the bottom left, to see inside for any movement. The arms coming out on the bottom left do not move when adjusting the temperature.

Next step will be to pull it apart to see if there is a mechanical problem stopping the servo or internal damper from moving. Or just give it to the dealer with your credit card sitting on the drivers seat.