2017 Ford Expedition Front Ac Not Blowing

Introduction

Is the air conditioning in your 2017 Ford Expedition only blowing warm air, or not blowing at all from the front vents? This can be incredibly frustrating, especially during hot weather. A malfunctioning AC system can make driving uncomfortable and potentially dangerous, especially on long trips. Getting this fixed promptly is important for your comfort and the well-being of your passengers. This guide will walk you through common causes and troubleshooting steps you can take before calling a professional.

Common Causes of 2017 Ford Expedition Front AC Not Blowing

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why the front AC in your 2017 Ford Expedition might not be blowing:. For more related activities, check out our My Ac Is Blowing Hot.

• Low Refrigerant: This is like the blood of your AC system. If it’s low, the AC won’t cool properly, and sometimes the system will shut down completely.
• Faulty Blower Motor: The blower motor is responsible for pushing air through the vents. If it’s broken, no air will come out, even if the AC is working.
• Blower Motor Resistor Failure: This controls the speed of the blower motor. If it fails, you might only get air on one speed, or none at all.
• Clogged Cabin Air Filter: A dirty cabin air filter restricts airflow, reducing the amount of air that reaches the vents.
• Blend Door Actuator Problems: This small motor controls the blend doors, which direct air over the heater core or evaporator core. If it fails, the door might be stuck in the wrong position.
• Electrical Issues (Fuses/Relays): A blown fuse or a faulty relay can cut power to the AC system’s components.
• Compressor Problems: The compressor is the heart of the AC system, compressing the refrigerant. If it fails, the AC won’t cool.
• Vacuum Leaks: Some older AC systems rely on vacuum to control various functions. Leaks can disrupt these functions. (Less common in newer vehicles but possible.)

Symptoms Checklist

Use this list to help pinpoint the problem:

• No air blowing from the front vents.
• Warm air blowing from the front vents.
• Air only blowing from the rear vents.
• Air blowing from the front vents, but only on one speed.
• Unusual noises coming from the dashboard area when the AC is turned on.
• AC light on the dashboard is not illuminated.
• AC clutch is not engaging (you might hear a click when the AC is turned on, or see the center of the compressor pulley spinning).

How to Fix 2017 Ford Expedition Front AC Not Blowing Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check the Fuses: Locate the fuse box(es) in your Expedition (refer to your owner’s manual). Find the fuses related to the AC system (blower motor, AC compressor). Inspect them for breaks or damage. Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage fuse.
2. Check the Relays: Relays are like switches that control higher-power circuits. Locate the AC compressor relay and blower motor relay (again, check your owner’s manual). Try swapping them with identical relays from another system (like the horn relay). If the AC now works and the horn doesn’t, you’ve identified a faulty relay.
3. Inspect the Cabin Air Filter: Locate the cabin air filter (usually behind the glove box). Remove it and check for excessive dirt and debris. A clogged filter restricts airflow. If it’s dirty, replace it with a new one.
4. Listen for the Blower Motor: Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (but don’t start the engine). Turn the AC fan to its highest setting. Listen carefully near the blower motor (usually under the passenger side dash) for any sounds. If you hear nothing, the blower motor might be dead. If you hear a faint hum, it might be struggling.
5. Check the Blower Motor Resistor: The blower motor resistor controls fan speed. It’s usually located near the blower motor. Sometimes you can access it by removing a panel under the glove box. Inspect the resistor for damage. A burned-out resistor is a common culprit.
6. Check for Obstructions: Sometimes debris (leaves, small objects) can get lodged in the air ducts. Try using a long, flexible object (like a coat hanger) to carefully probe the vents and see if you can dislodge anything.
7. Verify Compressor Clutch Engagement: With the engine running and AC on, visually inspect the AC compressor (usually located at the front of the engine). The center of the pulley should be spinning along with the outer part. If it’s not spinning, the compressor clutch isn’t engaging.
8. Check the Refrigerant Level: This is best left to a professional, but you can get a basic idea with a refrigerant recharge kit from an auto parts store. Be extremely careful when handling refrigerant. Follow all instructions that comes with the kit. A low refrigerant could result in no air.
9. Check the Blend Door Actuator: These are harder to access, and involve removing dashboard panels. Try turning the temperature control from hot to cold and listening for the actuator motor to move. If you hear clicking sounds, it might be failing.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before replacing parts, try these free fixes:

• Reset the System: Sometimes, simply turning off the car, waiting a few minutes, and restarting it can reset the AC system’s computer and resolve minor glitches.
• Cleaning: Vacuum the area around the blower motor and vents to remove any loose debris.
• Recalibration (If Possible): Some vehicles have a procedure to recalibrate the blend door actuators. Check your owner’s manual or search online for specific instructions for your 2017 Expedition.
• Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect all visible wiring and connections related to the AC system for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Maintenance: Regularly replace the cabin air filter to ensure proper airflow.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the troubleshooting steps above don’t resolve the issue, you might need to replace a part. Here are some common culprits and estimated costs (USD):

• Blower Motor: $100 – $300 (parts and labor)
• Blower Motor Resistor: $50 – $150 (parts and labor)
• Cabin Air Filter: $20 – $50 (parts and labor, but easy to DIY)
• Blend Door Actuator: $150 – $400 (parts and labor, can be complex)
• AC Compressor: $500 – $1200 (parts and labor – a more expensive repair)

Safety Warning

Keep these points in mind:

• Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components.
• Wear safety glasses when working under the dashboard.
• Be careful when handling refrigerant. It can cause frostbite.
• Never work on the AC system while the engine is running.
• If you’re uncomfortable working on your car, consult a qualified mechanic.

Tools You May Need

These tools will be useful:

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Socket set
• Pliers
• Multimeter (for testing electrical circuits)
• Fuse puller
• Flashlight

FAQ

Here are some common questions:

• Q: Why is my AC blowing cold air on one side but not the other? A: This often indicates a problem with a blend door actuator.
• Q: Can I recharge the AC system myself? A: Yes, but it’s important to use the correct type of refrigerant and follow all instructions carefully. Overcharging can damage the system.
• Q: How often should I replace my cabin air filter? A: Typically, every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or once a year.
• Q: Is it safe to drive with a non-working AC? A: It’s generally safe, but it can be uncomfortable, especially in hot weather. Driving for a long period of time in extreme heat can also be dangerous.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting AC problems can seem daunting, but with a little patience and this guide, you can tackle many common issues yourself. Remember to start with the simplest solutions first. If you’ve tried these steps and the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified technician for professional help.