I came across this cable hanging on the left-hand side of the passenger footwell while doing some regular maintenance. I couldn't find where it had come off and the other end goes behind the panels in the head unit and HVAC controls. Anyone have a clue what it might be and where it should go?

Thanks.

 

Hello @hq_ ,
In looking at the picture, one thing comes to mind, but not sure, is this your 2009 FSS, if so, is it LHD, if so, I would think that to be the gear shift lever release cable, I haven't seen one like that on the GT, as mine is a short cable under the center console wood trim panel.

If you have another person available, have someone pull the ball at the end of the cable to see if it releases the shifter lever without the key present around the vehicle, be sure to do this on flat ground, and be ready to hit the brake pedal if needed.

Johnny

 

Thanks. I'll give that a try. It's a '09 LHD, German market car if that makes a difference. I wondered if it could have something to do with HVAC as the driver's footwell (on the left-hand side) doesn't seem to get full airflow. Probably not, though.

 

@hq_ ,
No, nothing to do with the HVAC, as there is nothing cable driven, nor vacuum driven for the HVAC, most likely a sticky, failing or failed HVAC flap actuator at the HVAC suitcase.

I found a YouTube video that shows the cable is for the shift lock release.


As to your airflow for the driver's footwell, if you have Ross-Tech VCDS, you can do output tests, and basic settings to recalibrate the actuators full stops both ways.


"Running Output:

TestsOpen the VCDS software and select Select Control Module.
Go to the Auto-HVAC module (Address 08).
Click on Output Tests.
VCDS will run a pre-defined sequence that sequentially activates each actuator, blend door motor, and fan.
Listen carefully for the actuator motors to cycle back and forth, and verify that the air is correctly diverted through the corresponding vents.
Note that the output test usually runs only once per session.

Basic Settings & Calibration:

If you have replaced an actuator or are experiencing erratic airflow/temperatures, the motors must relearn their physical end stops.
In the Auto-HVAC module (Address 08), click on Basic Settings.
Scroll to or enter the documented group for the HVAC system reset (typically Group 001 or 004, depending on the exact chassis year).
Click Go! or ON/OFF/NEXT to start the calibration.
You will hear the flaps cycling back and forth inside the dash.
Wait until the display stops flashing or the field says "ADP OK" / "Finished."

Clearing Faults:
Once the test sequence and calibrations are complete, return to the main screen, check for any remaining Fault Codes, and clear them."



Johnny


.

 

Thanks. Great information. That settled the cable question once and for all.

I've re-calibrated the flaps a couple of times and VCDS doesn't show any errors in the system so it's likely something mechanical. A flap come loose from its actuator somewhere, a misaligned duct or the like. In normal weather it works well enough but in -20...-40°F temperatures my shoes start freezing onto pedals whereas the passenger's feet are toasty and warm.