I have the flapping footwell flap and in the process of fixing a blown bulb in the climate control unit, I saw what turns out to be the footwell flap actuator.

I just so happen to have ordered one of these actuators a few years back and was wondering if I have to pull the glovebox, etc. to swap out this actuator?

It seems pretty accessible once the climate control unit is removed. Can one just remove the old one and install the new one? It seems the only thing going to the actuator is the yellow hose?

 

If you are able to get the lid off (3 tabs I believe) you swap just the internals of the actuator. But the way I remember the room is to little to work in, and you do want it get closed properly to work. On the S4, moving the console just a bit to the rear is enough to reach the little pod and fix it. The lever attached to the actuator membrane needs a little bending to move it out and back in.

You might want to check the center console actuator too. It often fails and is within reach when you make a little room.
regards

 

What if I am just swapping out the entire actuator vs putting a new baffle in the old one?

I'd rather do that then get into tying to pry that lid off.