hi my almera was the same, but i fixed it the problem was the cable was insecure. You need to first remove cover below steering column on dash to find the cable, then disconnect the cable from the mechanism. (held on by 1 screw) you may need to remove a plastic box housing some electrics to get to it. Next remove trim from centre console and take out the heater control you may have to remove radio cause it can be a little tricky then see if the cable is fixed with a black steel clip to the heating controller, if not you need to fasten it on. I had to drill 2 holes in the housing where the cable fastens on and secure it with cable ties because mine had a piece broken off then just put it all back together hope this helps
jimbob
October 2008