Another failed AC. 39k miles. 2019

[kendive]

I think the design is different in an F-150. I had my whole plenum replaced under warranty; yes it's an all day-er on a Ranger.
The plenum under the dash gets warped because there is hot coolant running through it at all times. This causes the actuator(s) to bind or break, preventing the blend doors from moving. so if they get stuck open, you have 195ºF heat only.

Apparently this is cheaper than having put a ball valve with a step motor on the inlet hose in the first place, so there isn't coolant running through the heater core all the time.

Probably but I would still try to tackle myself. There is always a better way than what a dealer would do and I would know it was done correctly. Ford dealers scare the crap out of me.

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[Bkboyes]

Ah, the joys of an extended warranty. $250 deductible, the dealer provided a rental, and HVAC system replaced

 

[Motorpsychology]

Probably but I would still try to tackle myself. There is always a better way than what a dealer would do and I would know it was done correctly. Ford dealers scare the crap out of me.

I wish you success, Ken. Like nearly everything else automotive, there is a bunch of stuff to remove to get to the HVAC plenum, For example, the entire dashboard, APIM, and careful with that Airbag!

 

[MountainGoat]

Probably but I would still try to tackle myself. There is always a better way than what a dealer would do and I would know it was done correctly. Ford dealers scare the crap out of me.

AZ Scorpion found an easier way to do it. There is a post on here. Iirc drill a hole through some sheet metal by driver side footwell for access and then just manually turn the actuator, one way for winter, the other way in spring.

 

[Tracy Bowman]

Wonder what the % of 2019's have had this issue ? ? sounds like all of them if you read this forum...

Not me.

 

[kendive]

I wish you success, Ken. Like nearly everything else automotive, there is a bunch of stuff to remove to get to the HVAC plenum, For example, the entire dashboard, APIM, and careful with that Airbag!

I know but would not scare me. I have done way worse. My truck is brand new so hope it does not fail... I also have mess with airbags before. I replaced the clock spring in my wifes Honda CRV we use to own. I bought her a new Rav4 Hybrid not too long ago.

I will be quite honest. I will probably be back in an F150 some time or another. There is alot I miss.

BUT The Ranger is fun to drive for now... We end up with another camper I would move back to the F150 for sure.

 

[Motorpsychology]

Not me.

Don't jinx yourself, Tracy...

 

[Gibs45]

Was this problem fixed after the 2019 model year?

 

[NotBudule]

Was this problem fixed after the 2019 model year?

I believe some early 2020's may have had it ...

 

[IdahoRanger]

Was this problem fixed after the 2019 model year?

Supposedly.

 

[Motorpsychology]

Was this problem fixed after the 2019 model year?

My 2021 (4/21 build date) had to have the plenum replaced. I don't see any posts from 2023 owners, but it's early and 2023 was a short model year.

 

[Ronbo]

2019 Ranger FX4 “Unicorn Edition”. No problems with mine.

 

[Motorpsychology]

2019 Ranger FX4 “Unicorn Edition”. No problems with mine.

See Post #22

 

[Ronbo]

See Post #22

I bought the Jinx protection via a Ford Flood ESP warranty.

 

[Langwilliams]

I was thinking the climate you lived in might contribute but I guess it happens everywhere. I know a few people in AZ had the problem.

My 2019 with 46K was fine when I traded it in. I had the extended warranty to 75K just in case for this reason.

If the actuator lasts six months an it's $18 I'd be tempted to just buy a couple an change them when needed. I tend to get rid of vehicles after 50K. If you plan on running it a long time might have to bite the bullet an hope for a discount from Ford.

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