Your most likely issue is a bad hvac control switch. On older cars, this was operated by vacumm pressure, but on a 2002, it is all electrical. It may be that you need to replace the whole control unit.
The issue with the dash vents not working in your 1999 Mercury Sable, while the floor and defrost vents function properly, is likely due to a malfunctioning blend door or a problem with the HVAC control system. The blend door controls the airflow direction, and if it is stuck or damaged, it may prevent air from reaching the dash vents. Additionally, there could be a vacuum leak affecting the actuator that directs airflow. It's advisable to have a professional inspect the HVAC system to diagnose and fix the issue.
Most likely a bad or disconnected vacuum hose to the defrost/floor selector in the heater ducting.
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the heat blows out the defrost when it should blow out floor vents only
Vacuum leak
There may be several reasons why the air only blows out the front vents and not on the floor or the defrost on the 2003 Dodge Ram. The fuses may be blown, or the heating coil is not working correctly.
the middle vents only supply air from the ac unit using a separate in dash fan. the floor and defrost vents come only from the heater
The mode door actuator has failed. We have instructions for repair at www.trailvoy.com
If your Mercury Sable is stuck on the defrost setting and won't switch to the dashboard vents, it could be due to a malfunctioning blend door actuator or a vacuum leak in the HVAC system. Check the actuator for proper function, as it controls the direction of airflow. Additionally, inspect the vacuum lines connected to the HVAC system for any leaks or disconnections. If these components are functioning correctly, there may be an issue with the climate control unit itself.
the ducts can not be hooked up for the vents to work
When there is a problem with the vent system it dfaults to the defrost setting. Sounds like you have a problem in the doors that direct the air flow.
you need to replace the vacuum.