A.I. is garbage for finding information

[john70t]

I have to ask the simple question: Is this really progress?

[Bob Kontak]

Not finding same. Drop the boolean business as it never impressed me.

[masraum]

Originally Posted by john70t

Go to any major internet search engine.

Type in specific boolean search terms: The_Specific_Words_To_Search_For.
With quotes even.
Receive garbage results.
End of the first page, after paid ads, it's off to butterflies in Laos and the latest fashion in blue jeans.

Use another search engine.
They all piggy-back off the major ones.
Same thing.

I have to ask the simple question: Is this really progress?

I've noticed and thought about posting several times recently that google searches seem to have gone to crap for the past month or so. I feel like someone is anticipating what I "want" vs what my search text actually says. I feel like I used to get better results, but they are much worse recently.

[flipper35]

If you curse at the search engine it does better.

https://arstechnica.com/google/2025/01/just-give-me-the-fing-links-cursing-disables-googles-ai-overviews/

[masraum]

Originally Posted by Bob Kontak

Not finding same. Drop the boolean business as it never impressed me.

I think only about 1-5% of my searches use "natural speech" patterns. Almost all of my searches are based on keywords. I've always been well served by that, and the key is to be just specific enough. Too vague and you get crap results. Too specific and you get too few results and likely miss what you were looking for.

These days, it doesn't seem to matter. 90% of my results have gone to crap. For instance, in the past I was able to search music artist, lyrics, etc... and get album, song, discography, etc... Now when I do it my results all seem to be "sign up for spotify to hear _____", "sign up for _____ to hear ____", "purchase CDs for _____ on ______"

[masraum]

Originally Posted by flipper35

If you curse at the search engine it does better.

https://arstechnica.com/google/2025/01/just-give-me-the-fing-links-cursing-disables-googles-ai-overviews/

I'll have to read that article, but based on the title, that's awesome.

[id10t]

Useful for quick code generation - "make me a Java entity and db2 create table statement that matches the header row of this CSV file"

And boom... copy/paste, change a few things to meet our internal standards, and it is done.

[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by masraum

I've noticed and thought about posting several times recently that google searches seem to have gone to crap for the past month or so. I feel like someone is anticipating what I "want" vs what my search text actually says. I feel like I used to get better results, but they are much worse recently.

Agreed. I tend to keyword search and seem to be getting far more crap that’s only adjacent to my chosen topic.

[911_Dude]

It used to be that brief, concise key words were the key to a good search. But I think now, a descriptive, plain language search request works best most of the time. AI search has its flaws, for sure. But its also really strong in other areas.

I was searching unsuccessfully for a plumbing transition from 1/2" OD tubing female press fit (like Sharkbite) to a 5/8" FGHT (garden hose). Not easy. The AI search brought up a brilliant transition solution and provided links to the vendors that sold the parts. That kind of changed my mind on what could be achieved with a good AI search.

[id10t]

Originally Posted by 911_Dude

That kind of changed my mind on what could be achieved with a good AI search.

Think that is the key. Old school geeks and librarian types know about adding logic to search queries and how to really do up a good and proper set of search terms. Average person barely scratches the surface.

Now with the AI, the possibilities are huge BUT you need to be able to ask it the right questions and the more context you can give it the better.

[berettafan]

Did anyone happen to hear a recent NPR story on a guy who was testing AI voiced tech? He would sketch out an outline for the bot and the bot would call the subject and interview them within those rough parameters. The guy doing the story said he saw utility in the hum-drum reporter work as having the bot do the work would save him a lot of time.

Then he said something i feel went below many radars but, to me, is earth shaking-

He said the bot lied to the interviewee.

[masraum]

Originally Posted by berettafan

Did anyone happen to hear a recent NPR story on a guy who was testing AI voiced tech? He would sketch out an outline for the bot and the bot would call the subject and interview them within those rough parameters. The guy doing the story said he saw utility in the hum-drum reporter work as having the bot do the work would save him a lot of time.

Then he said something i feel went below many radars but, to me, is earth shaking-

He said the bot lied to the interviewee.

Haven't we seen that mentioned before? It seems we have, both intentional lies, but also "I don't know so I'm going to make something up" type stuff.

[cockerpunk]

AI is bad for most things, and im pretty happy to see everyone coming around to what ive been saying for a long time.

[Arizona_928]

AI is only as good as the model.

Start with crap and you’ll get poor product

[Bob Kontak]

Originally Posted by cockerpunk

AI is bad for most things, and im pretty happy to see everyone coming around to what ive been saying for a long time.

Stop it. For the love of God, you are good but you ain't that good.

Just try to make me drink one more IPA.

Originally Posted by Bob Kontak

Not finding same. Drop the boolean business as it never impressed me.

My searches are, example: 2014 Grand Cherokee drivers side blend door replacement.

Very rudimentary.

Or......Taylor Swift booed at Super Bowl.

[Arizona_928]

Originally Posted by Bob Kontak

Stop it. For the love of God, you are good but you ain't that good.

Just try to make me drink one more IPA.



My searches are, example: 2014 Grand Cherokee drivers side blend door replacement.

Very rudimentary.

Or......Taylor Swift booed at Super Bowl.

Less than 5 seconds. Wiser than a lot of wise arses here.

Breaking down the process
I’m working through the steps required to replace the driver side blend door in a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, including removing panels, accessing the HVAC box, and reassembling the system.

Below is a general step-by-step guide on how to replace the driver’s side blend door (often referred to as the blend door or blend door actuator) on a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The exact procedure can vary slightly depending on trim level and additional features (dual-zone climate control, etc.). Always consult a repair manual (like a Chrysler/Jeep factory service manual) or a reputable third-party manual for the most accurate details. If you’re uncertain, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic.

1. Overview

The blend door (or “temperature door”) is a small hinged flap inside the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) housing that controls the mix of hot and cold air.
On many modern vehicles, an electronic actuator moves the blend door. In many cases, the actuator fails rather than the actual door—so make sure you’ve correctly diagnosed a faulty door vs. a faulty actuator.
If the plastic gear on the blend door shaft is broken or the hinge cracked, then replacing the entire door assembly is necessary.
2. Tools & Materials Needed

Socket set (metric and/or standard; typically 7mm, 8mm, 10mm are common)
Torx drivers (depending on fasteners)
Trim removal tools (to prevent damaging plastic panels)
Flashlight or good shop light (visibility under the dash is often limited)
Replacement blend door (or door actuator, if that’s the cause)
Owner’s or service manual (for reference on fastener sizes and torque specs)
3. Preparation & Safety

Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Modern vehicles have a variety of electronic modules—disconnecting power helps avoid short circuits or accidental airbag deployments when working under the dash.
Wait ~5–10 minutes after disconnecting the battery to ensure all electronic modules power down.
4. Accessing the Driver’s Side Blend Door

Remove the driver’s side lower dash panel (knee bolster area):
Look beneath the steering wheel for screws or clips.
Use a trim removal tool to pry carefully if there are plastic push-clips.
Once the screws/clips are out, gently lower the panel—some models may require unplugging an OBD-II port harness or dash light connector.
Locate the HVAC housing:
In many Grand Cherokees, the driver’s side blend door actuator (and door) is up against the center console side of the HVAC box.
You may need to remove an additional side trim panel on the center console or a small sound insulation panel to see the actuator and door lever.
5. Removing the Actuator (If Applicable)

Note: If you are replacing only the blend door because the door itself is broken, you still often have to remove the actuator to access the door shaft.
Identify the driver’s side blend door actuator: It’s typically a small black plastic box with an electrical connector, mounted with 2-3 small screws.
Disconnect the wiring harness: Press the tab on the connector and carefully pull it free.
Remove the mounting screws:
A small 1/4-inch drive ratchet with a short extension helps in tight spaces.
Take note of the screw lengths and locations.
Pull the actuator straight off: You may need to wiggle it gently to disengage the actuator gear from the blend door shaft.
6. Removing the Broken Blend Door

Inspect the blend door shaft:
Sometimes the door is accessible once the actuator is removed, other times you may need to open the HVAC housing further.
If you see the door pivot or hinge is broken, or the gear teeth are stripped, that confirms the door itself needs replacement.
Removing the door from the HVAC box:
In some cases, the door can be slid out once the retaining tabs or a small cover is removed on the HVAC housing.
In other models, you may have to partially disassemble or split the HVAC housing. This can be a more involved job, sometimes requiring dash removal.
On some Grand Cherokees, you can remove a small access panel or cut a manufacturer-approved access port (rare, but Jeep/Chrysler has TSBs for certain models) to swap the door without fully removing the dash.
Take note of orientation:
Before pulling the door out, note how it’s oriented (which side faces the actuator, etc.).
This ensures you install the new door correctly.
7. Installing the New Blend Door

Carefully position the replacement door:
Align it in the same orientation as the original.
Make sure the hinge or pivot pin seats in the HVAC housing bushings.
Reinstall any HVAC housing covers or panels that were removed or unlatched to access the door.
Use new seals or foam gaskets if necessary to maintain proper airflow and avoid rattles.
8. Reinstalling the Actuator

Align the actuator gear with the door shaft:
The door shaft typically has a D-shaped or keyed fitting that matches the actuator gear.
Gently rotate the actuator by hand if needed to align the splines or flat edges.
Secure the actuator with the mounting screws:
Tighten them snugly (usually just a few in-lbs or ft-lbs; be careful not to overtighten).
Reconnect the wiring harness:
Ensure it clicks into place firmly.
9. Test Before Reassembly

Reconnect the negative battery cable.
Start the vehicle or turn the ignition to “ON” (engine not necessarily running).
Cycle the climate controls:
Move the temperature from hot to cold, observe if the airflow changes as expected on the driver’s side.
Listen for any clicking or irregular noise that might indicate improper gear meshing.
Check for error codes or HVAC calibrations:
Some vehicles may perform an automatic calibration of the HVAC actuators when you cycle the ignition or press certain buttons on the climate control.
Consult your user manual or service manual if the system requires a manual “actuator calibration” procedure.
10. Final Reassembly

Reinstall any trim panels removed from under the dash, including the knee bolster or lower dash cover.
Secure any wiring harnesses or connectors that were disconnected.
Double-check for loose fasteners or rattles.
Road test: Drive the vehicle and confirm the climate system is delivering proper hot/cold air on both driver and passenger sides.
Additional Tips & Cautions

Dash Removal:
In some Jeep models, gaining full access to the blend door involves partial dash removal, which is significantly more time-consuming. Attempt the simpler partial-access method first if your model allows.
Actuator vs. Door Diagnosis:
Often it’s the actuator motor or plastic gear inside the actuator that fails. Replacing the entire blend door is more labor-intensive—make sure that’s really the part that’s broken.
Genuine vs. Aftermarket Parts:
Consider using OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts to avoid repeat failures.
Safety:
Be mindful of airbag components around the driver’s side dash (knee airbag in some models). If you see an airbag module, be extremely cautious; consider professional help if you’re unsure.
In Summary
Replacing the driver’s side blend door on a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee typically involves removing the lower dash trim on the driver’s side, accessing the HVAC housing near the center console, removing the actuator, and then swapping the door itself if it’s broken. The key challenge is often gaining access to the HVAC box. With patience, the proper tools, and careful attention to orientation and calibration, you can restore correct temperature control on the driver’s side. If at any point the steps become too complicated or you encounter hidden fasteners, referencing the factory service manual or consulting a professional mechanic is strongly advised.

[Bob Kontak]

Nice. I would rather have the above vs a youtube video.

I'm done with the job but where he says way at the bottom "Be mindful of air bag components around the driver's side dash" That data made the job an eight out of ten vs a five out of ten.

Mind you, if I was a 25 year old, 170 pound man..............OR if I had to do the job again being a fat 68 year old. Knowledge is almost as good as youth, flexibility and strength.

[sc_rufctr]

No doubt this will change in the future but right now I'd say A.I. is garbage.

What's it good for?

[berettafan]

Drawing investment dollars in anticipation of the tech displacing massive amounts of workers.

[dlockhart]