temp control knob problem - Toyota Tundra Forums : Tundra Solutions Forum

vitquay102 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-23-2008, 02:26 PM

My 01 HL has automatic climate control and the temperature control knob on the left of the panel has recently started to show problem. Normally this knob will increase temp 1 deg (with digital display) when turned clockwise one click and vise versa. Recently it fails to response. I sometimes have to rotate it a few dozen times just to increase or decrease one degree. It seems like the contact behind the knob has worn out. Nothing seems to be loose on the knob. The center nut is tight. I do not think this knob has wires in the back like manual temperature control model which I read in other threads. I brought it to the dealer and they ask for $1,400.00 for new panel plus installation. I think there should be a cheaper way to fix this. I wonder if any one has encountered similar problem and would like to share their thoughts or fixes if available.

Thanks.

bepperb · #2 (**permalink**) 10-23-2008, 03:06 PM

If it were me, I would call a few junkyards in your area, or buy this:

eBay Motors: 2004 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER TEMPERATURE CONTROL (item 360092765665 end time Oct-26-08 19:51:58 PDT)

It's not very hard to swap out. You could even go to a local (non dealer) mechanic and have them do it, for probably 1 hour of labor.

Otherwise, the part is 603 bucks at toyotapartscheap.com.

Best of luck. Don't sound so helpless. You make it seem like a horrible tradgedy that you need to turn a small knob three times to change the temp, which you do what, five times a year? Can't you set it to 72 and be done with it?

vitquay102 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-23-2008, 03:26 PM

Thanks Bepperb for the feedback.
Actually it has come to the point that the knob does not want to response at all. So I may need a replacement quick before winter arrives. Will search around for old unit but I prefer to fix it if possible. If any one had come across this before and know how to, I really appreciate the tips.

vitquay102 · #4 (**permalink**) 11-05-2008, 01:54 PM

Has any one come accrossed this problem before?

Scotty's Garage · #5 (**permalink**) 11-07-2008, 01:09 PM

I would say you have a broken wire on the circuit control knob. You will need to remove the cover an have a look. Mine did the same thing.

shiper1 · #6 (**permalink**) 12-08-2008, 06:38 AM

How do you get the plastic mounting off? How does it come loose from the dash? Does it have some brackets holding the plastic on? Could you be specific about how to get to the control unit, in back of the heater, please?

ptinio · #7 (**permalink**) 12-09-2008, 02:35 AM

hmmm

check this forum for "wizzer" or "heater quit sort of" I had the exact same problem along with 1000 countless highlander owners, check it out, it will save you $1000 or more. By the way, after you've fixed it, send a thanks to wizzer

, he's saved everyone a ton of money on this site.

Had the exact same issue on 2002 highlander. Its easy

LifeTech · #8 (**permalink**) 12-11-2008, 11:35 AM

The Temp.control is different for an 01-007 Limited with Non-Nav climate control.

surfshoptom · #9 (**permalink**) 12-28-2008, 12:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LifeTech

The Temp.control is different for an 01-007 Limited with Non-Nav climate control.

yeah - but the problem is the same. the knobs are connected to the circuit boards by ribbon cables. the cables break off. they need to be resoldered or removed and replaced with wires.