HVAC “crinkling” NOISE PROBLEM

[SiestaKeyJimmy]

The problem I’m talking about is the “crinkling” noise coming from the HVAC at almost all fan settings. (This noise may not be very noticeable to non-hybrid owners – in Camry Hybrids it is very noticeable because they are so quiet)!


This noise is apparently caused by parking under any kind of tree that has small leaves or pine needles. This debris falls into (or is washed into) the HVAC system (because the vents under the hood have egg create openings much too large) and allow this to happen. Once this debris gets caught in your HVAC you will hear it being blown around making a “crinkling” noise that spoils my otherwise whisper quiet driving experience.

Does anyone have any ideas on how to fix the HVAC noise problem (My Toyota Dealer doesn’t!).

[LCromwell]

Originally Posted by SiestaKeyJimmy

The problem I’m talking about is the “crinkling” noise coming from the HVAC at almost all fan settings. (This noise may not be very noticeable to non-hybrid owners – in Camry Hybrids it is very noticeable because they are so quiet)!


This noise is apparently caused by parking under any kind of tree that has small leaves or pine needles. This debris falls into (or is washed into) the HVAC system (because the vents under the hood have egg create openings much too large) and allow this to happen. Once this debris gets caught in your HVAC you will hear it being blown around making a “crinkling” noise that spoils my otherwise whisper quiet driving experience.

Does anyone have any ideas on how to fix the HVAC noise problem (My Toyota Dealer doesn’t!).

At the risk of souding like a smart ass don't park under a tree? otherwise I would see how hard it is to remove the grill over the HVAC and put some plastic window screening under it.( Home depot or Lowes) Plastic because it won't rust or scratch anything and should fit easier than a metal screen.

[dionne]

I think i have the same problem, but no answer. the noise seems to be coming from my driver's side air vent though, not at the intake. at first i thought it was the speaker, but no. when i shut off the air, the noise stops. this has been a problem since i first started using the a/c. (bought the car in march and 2 months later i noticed the sounds). so when i brought it in to the dealer, guess what? there was no noise! go figure. well, i haven't been back since. but i think i will go there now. it is a slight, but annoying problem..when i don't have the awesome sound system cranked, of couse!

[Rdy2Retire]

Try adjusting the vents slightly. One of mine was making the same noise and adjusting the vent took care of it. Also, you can lift out the center dash area (with the clock in it) and vacuum around the area to see if that helps.