rogan01

Today I started hearing a fairly loud "tapping" noise lasting about 5 -10 second right after I start the car. It then stops - unless I turn on the A/C, then it does it again and stops. The noise appears to come from right behind the front console top middle air vents.

Not sure if this helps (or if just coincidence) - the noise started happening after I was parked under a tree that had dried leaves about 1 to 2 inches long. Some of these fell into the area where the windshield wipers are - just thinking maybe something got in somewhere? I checked under the hood and didn't see anything obvious.

Need to take it to the dealer I guess but anyone have an idea what this may be?

Car is a 2011 GT 6-spd with 12K miles. Thanks for any help or suggestions as always.

Antonio323

Take it to the dealer. Your car is new so its still under warranty. I had that same exact problem happen to my 2010 V6 and took it to the dealer. They had to order some part for the A/C, I forgot what it's called. Haven't had that problem since.

rogan01

Thank you

acquah20

It sounds like its the a/c compressor clutch to me, bearing is probably bad. It does it with the a/c on also? That would be my initial guess if i was at work and that was my customers complaint. Seen it before but never on a GT or mustang in general

2005Redfire6

Compressor clutch would be in the engine bay. This tapping noise he is referring to is some type of diverter valve in the dash itself. My girlfriend has the same issue with her 2010 V6 and its actually going to the dealership tomorrow to have it fixed.

acquah20

Yes it would be in the engine bay but you can hear it from the dash, the only reason i say that is b/c he said it dis it with the a/c on. I think what your girlfriend may be expierencing is the blendoor vent actuator which would tap and click from the dash

Antonio323

Yeah, that's the problem. That is what the dealer ordered for mine and replaced it.

HOTRODD77

^^This... Mine was replaced as well. Quick and simple

rogan01

At the dealer right now. Of course it didn't make the noise even though it did it on startup this am... Service person said he thought he knew what it was and will check. Thinks it may be a stuck valve of some sort. Said there are 2. Hope they don't have to take too much apart. I'll post what happens. Thanks for all the responses.

rogan01

That seems to be the initial assessment. A diverter that is getting stuck. Wonder if there is something that causes or precipitates this. I live in south florida and use the ac a lot. Just used the heater for the first time last week...