Fan noise - should this pipe be connected?

[Gordo]

After our van was serviced just before Xmas, I’ve noticed the heater fan makes a buzzing noise (sounds like a leaf hitting the fan or something when the heating / ventilation is turned on).

I’ve attached pics - it’s a Carthago C-Tourer 149LE (21 plate Mercedes).

I’ve noticed one of the ventilation pipes is not connected to anything (has it sucked something up because of that?) but can’t see where (if) it should be connected. It sucks air in when running.

Separately, how might I get to the fan? I’m guessing I’d have to go in from above, removing dash panels?

All ideas welcomed (I’m messaging the dealer as well that serviced it but would ideally just sort it myself if it’s an easy fix).

Thanks
Gordo

 

[BouncyBoatFolk]

Sorry, I'm not familiar with Mercs, but that doesn't right for any vehicle and almost certainly it's ingested something.
Mike.

 

[ontheroadagain]

On my last car (Mitsubishi Outlander) I had a similar noise after a service. When they had changed the cabin pollen/air filter a few leaves had dropped down and were hitting the fan blades. I removed the filter and cleaned out the leaves and the noise disappeared.

 

[St3v3]

I suspect they've done the pollen filter and dropped something into the fan.

 

[fishplug]

It should definitely be connected to something!

Just had a look at my old Sprinter engine to see if there might be any clues, but they're quite different it seems.

The advantage you have is that the pipe looks like it's got approximately the right length and curve to it that it should give you a clue as to where the other end should connect. Can't bee too many options I wouldn't have thought.