Loud Clicking Noise From Dash

[MariaW]

I have an 06 RX 400h, 6 months and ongoing iv got really loud clicking noice coming from dash, it’s driving me mad. It used to be every now and then but now all the time, iv played around with the A/C, still nothing stops it. My husband won’t let me take it to a dealer said it will cost to much but I need to try do something before I end up pulling my hair out. If someone can help with any advise. Thanks in advance 

[Greisingel]

Running your HVAC fan? It's common for the vent to malfunction creating the sound of critters behind the dashboard. Sounds like it has happened to you. I have it on my 400. I've learnt to ignore it but it can be annoying. Fix? The dash has got to come out. Not cheap I imagine.

[steve2006]

It does sound like one of the vent control actuators trying to change position but it’s got stuck mid position.

Have you replaced your pollen filter recently?

[jaegerfly]

I had this on my RX400h. It was the actuator that moved the airflow from windscreen vents to floor. There was something in the mechanism (a lever I think) that failed and then it kept clicking away trying to move the lever up and down.

The actuator was accessible under the steering column and behind the foot brake. I had to dismantle the foot brake, move it out the way, remove some trim and then reach up to remove 3 screws that held the actuator in place. An absolute pig to do, using a screwdriver ratchet (Philips head) and I had to bend myself into a pretzel to do it. I put in a second hand actuator - this was 7 years ago and it's still fine. It was a choice of 2nd hand actuator £25 + my time, vs £000s getting an independent to do it.