When I switch the air flow mode to or from "windshield", I can hear a creaking/squeaking noise coming from the windshield's defroster outlets. It only lasts a second, so I know it's coming from the vent flap (don't know if that's the correct term) trying to open/close.

This started happening only recently when the weather started getting cold, and I think it just needs some lubrication. If that's the case, then how do I get to whatever part needs lubrication? Also what kind of lubricant do I use?

If I need to take it to the mechanic to get it fixed, approximately what kind of costs am I looking at? It sounds like a labor intensive job, because I'm not sure if there's a way to get at the vent flaps without disassembling the dash.

Here's a pic of where the sound seems to be coming from: https://i.imgur.com/yooHfSp.jpg

 

You do have to remove the dash and gauges and the BCM to get to the mixer/mode motors. The estimated time is 1.3 hours so not quite as labor intensive as a lot of other repairs. I didn't look for a Part number as I don't know the year and model of your Maxima.

 

It's a 2013 SV.

Can you identify the part here? https://parts.nissanusa.com/nissanpa...7642&siteid=14

I see a bunch of actuators, but where are the mode door hinges?

 

Just a little update on this issue...

I'm assuming that whatever was making the noise was some kind of an actuator driven "flap" that opens or closes the defroster vent. The same day I noticed this issue, I worked the vent by opening/closing it several times, and the noise seemed to lessen after doing this. Today it was slightly less cold and there was no noise at all. I'm guessing this is just a cold weather squeak that doesn't really need fixing, so I'll just live with it.