Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sonoma, 2003 GMC Jimmy, 2003 Chevrolet S10 Pickup, and 2003 Chevrolet Blazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The defroster actuator is located on the bottom left side of the HVAC module.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Vacuum Connector From Defroster Actuator

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the left side instrument panel sound insulator. Refer to CLOSEOUT/INSULATOR PANEL REPLACEMENT -- LEFT in Instrument Panel, Gages and Console.
Remove the lower IP instrument panel sound insulator. Refer to CLOSEOUT/INSULATOR PANEL REPLACEMENT -- INSTRUMENT PANEL (I/P) LOWER in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.
Disconnect the vacuum connector (3) from the defroster actuator (4).
Remove the actuator rod retaining clip (1).
Remove the actuator rod (2) from the defroster door lever (5).
Firmly pull on the defroster actuator in order to remove the actuator from the HVAC module.

Fig 2: Removing Actuator From HVAC Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.