Passenger side climate control keeps dropping to low … any fixes?

The passenger side climate control in my car automatically drops to low temperature. The driver’s side works fine. Any idea what could be causing this or how to fix it?

What happens if you use the +/- temp controls on the dash?

Dru said:
What happens if you use the +/- temp controls on the dash?

Same issue. The driver’s side is fine, but the passenger side keeps dropping to low.

Lin said:

Dru said:
What happens if you use the +/- temp controls on the dash?

Same issue. The driver’s side is fine, but the passenger side keeps dropping to low.

Could be a sticky button?

@Rowan
That’s what I was thinking. Either that or maybe a fuse or wiring issue.

Might not fix it, but you could try disconnecting the battery for a few minutes to reset the system. Electronics are weird sometimes. Basically a reboot.

Dru said:
Might not fix it, but you could try disconnecting the battery for a few minutes to reset the system. Electronics are weird sometimes. Basically a reboot.

Thanks, I’ll give that a shot!

There’s a lot of talk online about touchscreen and interface module issues in these models. It could be a faulty screen or control module. I’d suggest looking into it further. Here’s a thread that might help: https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/threads/touch-screen-not-responding.477677/

Is something pressing on the dash buttons? I had a phone cord accidentally press the button when my phone was in a vent holder.

I’ve had this issue too. On mine, the dual climate button sometimes presses itself (ghost touch). Turning the AC on and off usually stops it for a while, but it’s annoying.

Blayne said:
I’ve had this issue too. On mine, the dual climate button sometimes presses itself (ghost touch). Turning the AC on and off usually stops it for a while, but it’s annoying.

Yeah, I’ve been doing the same thing, but it’s a pain.

@Lin
Mine’s a 2013, and it’s been doing this for three years. I’ve just learned to live with it, but it happens more often in the winter.

Blayne said:
@Lin
Mine’s a 2013, and it’s been doing this for three years. I’ve just learned to live with it, but it happens more often in the winter.

I’ve noticed it’s worse since it got colder. I love the car, but this is my one big gripe. Glad I’m not the only one dealing with it!

It’s likely the front control interface module (FCIM). These are known to fail and cause issues like this.

It’s probably the (-) touch button for the passenger side. If it’s sticky, the system won’t adjust gradually like it’s supposed to.

Does this still happen if you turn off dual climate?

Mika said:
Does this still happen if you turn off dual climate?

Yep, even when I turn off dual climate, it pops right back on.

Lol, he said NO.

Try disabling the dual climate button.

These Explorers from that time period are known for issues. I know three people who’ve had them, and they all say it’s the worst car they’ve owned. I’d trade it in before more things go wrong. My wife’s 2017 has been much better, though.