Front Mode Control Motor Test

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Acura MDX, 2008 Acura MDX, and 2007 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Before testing, check for HVAC DTCs (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ).

Disconnect the 7P connector from the front mode control motor.
NOTE: Incorrectly applying power and ground to the front mode control motor will damage it. Follow the instructions carefully.
Connect battery power to the No. 1 terminal of the front mode control motor, and ground the No. 2 terminal; the front mode control motor should run smoothly, and stop at Vent. If it doesn't, reverse the connections; the front mode control motor should run smoothly, and stop at Defrost. When the front mode control motor stops running, disconnect battery power immediately.

Fig 1: Identifying Front Mode Control Motor Connector Terminals
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the front mode control motor did not run in step 2, remove it, then check the front mode control linkage and doors for smooth movement.
- If the linkage and doors move smoothly, replace the front mode control motor (see FRONT MODE CONTROL MOTOR REPLACEMENT ).
- If the linkage or doors stick or bind, repair them as needed.
- If the front mode control motor runs smoothly, go to step 4.
Use a digital multimeter with an output of 1 mA or less at the 20 kΩ range. With the front mode control motor running as in step 2, check for continuity between the No. 3, 4,5, and 6 terminals and the No. 7 terminal individually. There should be continuity for a moment at each terminal as the motor moves past the switch's terminal.
If there is no continuity for a moment at each terminal, replace the front mode control motor (see FRONT MODE CONTROL MOTOR REPLACEMENT ).