This 2006 Chevrolet Impala came in with a rapid clicking or ticking sound coming from the passenger side of the dash. As far as I could tell it was emanating from behind the upper right corner of the glove box area. I opened the glove box fully and found that there were two locking tabs at the rear on either side. A slight push down and the latches released.
A better look at the latches. The glove box body has to be pushed down so that the latches can clear the rear housing. After they are clear the glove box will roll down out of the way.
Looking through the opening I could see the door bumping back and forth in rhythm with the clicking sound. I disconnected the wiring and it stopped. There are two 5.5 mm headed screws that hold the actuator in place.
The old actuator with a part number 52411997.
I decided to open the actuator up to see if the problem is evident. I suspect a broken gear.
There it is – two missing teeth.
Click on the pictures to enlarge for a better view.
The gears are not available by themselves.
Luckily the actuators are not very expensive.
If you have the same problem and need to buy this actuator please click here.