Hello all,
My 300SDL climate control functions properly in summer and winter, but I've noticed something wierd that it does.
In the middle of winter (today was 9 degrees Fahrenheit), I get a cold draft from under the dash on the driver's side. The footwell flap seems to be working, as some hot air comes out near my feet, but there is a distinct blowing of cold air also.
While in the drivers seat, I can feel cold air primarily in two places:
1 - Near my toes at the top of the accelerator pedal. My toes go numb after driving for 45 mins in cold weather. Rest of car is comfortable
2 - There is a distinct blowing of cold air between the steering column and underdash panel. The underdash panel I am referring to is the one that has a change tray on each side of the steering wheel. There is a "curved" section in the centre of this panel where it mates with the steering column and there is an air draft from there.
Some observations:
-Happens at any speed. Doesn't seem to be an exterior air leak, since it happens even at idle.
-Something is definately moving the air. It's as if there is a fan under there blowing cold air at me.
-Changes with fan speed. Lower fan speed=less cold air. If I turn the fan off, no cold air blows (no heat either
)
-Operation of system seems fine otherwise. The defrost works, center vents work depending on the setting, footwell flap opens & closes as it should, etc.
Any thoughts? I'm freezing!
Oh, and everyone try your best to refrain from commenting on my stupidity for living where it's 9 degrees in mid-afternoon on a sunny day
Thanks!
Neal