Heat / AC induced click
Now that the hotter summer temps are here, a recurring issue is back. When outside temperatures are very warm (today is almost 100), and the AC is running full blast, I get a very loud and sharp 'snap' or 'crack' noise after about 4-5 minutes. It happens at about the same place on the drive home. Sounds like an expansion/contaction plastic snap right behind the nav/storage spot in the center of the dash. Anyone else have this? Or an explanation? Doesn't seem to be hurting anything - just a minor annoyance.
It used to happen on my BMW sometimes it sound like a small rock hitting the windshield. I do not have a explanation.
It could be a metal area in the A/C system that flexes under heat/cooling and thus creates a "pop" noise. Do you hear a similar pop as the car sits after running?
If you are real handy with trim tools and have a day to devote to removing most all the center of your dash, NAV/RADIO, and possibly the entire dash pad, I would leave it as is. Most anything that moves, (air control doors), in the cooling/heating system is plastic with metal control rods.
I've had the entire interior out of a 350 installing a roll cage,then putting it all back together. I don't remember seeing anything that would bind and go "POP" that would hurt anything. As long as EVERYTHING, heat, air, and defrost, is working the way it is supposed to work, there shouldn't be a problem.
If, this is something you can't stand, then take it to the dealer. I know, most of us can't stand the dealers, but on items such as this they have much more experience than your local Z mechanic. There may even be a TSB on it.
I have that same loud click/crack noise. Does it a few minutes after I start the car and drive. Sounds like it comes from behind the nav area.
maybe one of the A/C doors is jammed or something...
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1985 300ZX n/a
See my Z project