problem with climate control 2001 taurus

[falcn63]

This problem started out of the blue with no warning. The car is equipped with that "automatic climate control". It is now blowing out hot air, I'm guessing at top heater temperature, regardless of where it is set. I does not matter whether the a/c is on or off or where the temperature control is set. The temp. can be set anywhere between 60 deg. and 90 deg. and it does not make any difference. It doesn't matter whether it is just on vent, defrost, or max. a/c.--still hot air. I clamped off the heater hose coming off the engine block, and that makes it cool right down and a/c is cold. So whatever is supposed to be shutting off the hot water to the heater core is not working. My problem is I don't know where to start. I checked to make sure no fuses were blown, but they are all ok. Does anyone know what the components of this system are? Are there sensors or sending units to check? And if so where. I assume there has to be some type of valve on the hot water circuit. Anyone know how I would check it? If anyone can point me in right direction I would appreciate it. Thanks.

[dmjasmith]

I own 2 Taurus' that have had the same exact problem. The problem is the climate control module. I had the one in my 2002 Taurus replaced since it was under warranty, but I do the following to reset it in my 2000 Taurus:

Open the glovebox and press the spring tabs that hold it in place and allow it to swing downward. This will give you access to the area behind the glovebox. Look into the area just behind the glovebox to the lfet side behind the radio area, and you will notice a small electronic module (about the size of a cigarette pack). This is the Climate control module. You will see some vaccum lines and electrical lines connected. I reset mine by removing both sets of lines and then proceed to crank the car and cycle the air conditioner a number of times. It may take 2 or 3 tries before it finally resests, but don't give up, it will eventually reset and cold air will again blow through the vents. You will hear the blend door flip over when it finally takes.

Ocasionally it sticks again, usually when there is a cool morning during the warmer months. I have also found that leaving the air set at 60 degrees all the time and adjusting the fan stops it from occurring as much as using the auto setting.

Or if you're not as stubborn as I am, you can just go buy a new one and replace it.

Hope this helps.

[stoneyzoni]

I have a similar problem. mine started after a battery replacement. I tried "resetting" the cc module with no luck. I purchased a new modlue and installed it but it didn't do a thing. I'm wondering if there are relays that effect the module operation. I pulled the blower motor out and the blend door works it's open for heated air. When I disconnect the module it closes like it is supposed to. It just stays open when the module is activated.