How To Take Out Blower Motor

Is your car's heater or AC blowing weakly, making strange noises, or not working at all? The culprit could very well be a faulty blower motor. Replacing it is a common repair, and while it can sometimes be tackled at home, knowing the process, the symptoms, and the potential pitfalls is crucial. Getting it fixed promptly is important for your comfort, safety, and the health of your vehicle's climate control system.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Failing Blower Motor

A malfunctioning blower motor doesn't always fail completely and instantaneously. More often, it exhibits a range of symptoms that progressively worsen. Recognizing these early can save you from being caught off guard in extreme weather. Here’s what to look for:

Weak Airflow: This is perhaps the most common symptom. The air coming from your vents is noticeably weaker than usual, even when the fan is set to the highest speed. It might feel like a gentle breeze rather than a strong blast.
No Airflow at All: In more advanced stages of failure, the blower motor might completely stop working. No matter what fan speed you select, no air will come out of the vents.
Intermittent Operation: The blower motor might work sometimes and not others. It could cut out unexpectedly while you're driving or fail to start when you turn on the ignition. This intermittent behavior often points to a failing motor or a loose electrical connection.
Unusual Noises: Grinding, squealing, whining, or rattling sounds coming from behind the dashboard are strong indicators of a problem with the blower motor. These noises are often caused by worn-out bearings or debris lodged inside the motor housing.
Burning Smell: A burning plastic or electrical smell emanating from the vents is a serious warning sign. This usually indicates an overheating blower motor or a short circuit in the wiring. Shut off the system immediately and investigate.
Fan Works on Some Speeds, But Not Others: This symptom often points to a problem with the blower motor resistor, which controls the fan speed. However, it can also be a sign of a failing blower motor that's struggling to operate at certain speeds.

Understanding the Root Cause

The blower motor is essentially an electric fan that forces air through your car's heating and cooling system and into the cabin. Several factors can contribute to its failure:

Wear and Tear: Like any mechanical component, the blower motor is subject to wear and tear over time. The bearings that support the motor shaft can wear out, leading to noise and reduced performance. The motor brushes, which conduct electricity to the motor windings, can also wear down, eventually causing the motor to fail.
Debris Accumulation: Leaves, dirt, and other debris can enter the blower motor housing through the air intake vents. This debris can obstruct the fan blades, reducing airflow and putting extra strain on the motor. Over time, the debris can also damage the motor bearings and windings.
Electrical Issues: Problems with the electrical wiring, connections, or blower motor resistor can also cause the blower motor to malfunction. A loose or corroded connection can restrict the flow of electricity to the motor, while a faulty resistor can prevent the motor from operating at certain speeds. A short circuit can cause the motor to overheat and fail.
Moisture Intrusion: Leaks in the windshield, sunroof, or cowl area can allow water to enter the blower motor housing. This moisture can corrode the motor components, leading to premature failure.
Overuse: Running the blower motor at high speed for extended periods, especially in extreme weather conditions, can put extra strain on the motor and shorten its lifespan.

The Consequences of Ignoring a Blower Motor Problem

While a faulty blower motor might seem like a minor inconvenience, ignoring the problem can lead to several negative consequences:

Reduced Comfort: The most obvious consequence is a lack of adequate heating or cooling in the cabin. This can make driving uncomfortable, especially in extreme weather conditions.
Compromised Safety: In cold weather, a malfunctioning defroster can impair visibility by fogging up the windshield. In hot weather, a lack of air conditioning can make you drowsy and less alert, increasing the risk of accidents.
System Damage: A failing blower motor can put extra strain on other components of the HVAC system, such as the compressor and heater core. This can lead to premature failure of these components and more costly repairs.
Electrical Fire: In rare cases, an overheating blower motor can cause a short circuit and potentially lead to an electrical fire.

Recommended Fixes and Replacement Procedures

The most common solution for a faulty blower motor is replacement. While some experienced DIYers may choose to tackle this project themselves, it's often best left to a professional mechanic. Here's a general overview of the process:

Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical shock.
Access the Blower Motor: The location of the blower motor varies depending on the vehicle make and model. It's typically located behind the glove compartment or under the dashboard on the passenger side. You may need to remove panels and other components to gain access. Consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions.
Disconnect Electrical Connections: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors from the blower motor and blower motor resistor. Be sure to note the position of each connector to avoid confusion during reassembly.
Remove the Blower Motor: Remove the screws or bolts that secure the blower motor to the housing. Carefully pull the blower motor out of the housing.
Inspect the Blower Motor Resistor: It's a good idea to inspect the blower motor resistor for signs of damage or corrosion. If it's faulty, replace it along with the blower motor.
Install the New Blower Motor: Install the new blower motor in the housing, making sure it's properly aligned and secured. Reconnect the electrical connectors.
Reassemble: Reinstall any panels or components that were removed to access the blower motor.
Test: Reconnect the negative battery cable and test the blower motor to ensure it's working properly on all speeds.

Important Considerations:

Quality Matters: When replacing the blower motor, use a high-quality replacement part from a reputable manufacturer. Cheap aftermarket parts may not last as long or perform as well as the original equipment.
Check for Debris: Before installing the new blower motor, thoroughly clean the blower motor housing to remove any debris. This will help prevent future problems.
Blower Motor Resistor: As mentioned above, consider replacing the blower motor resistor at the same time as the blower motor. This can prevent future issues related to fan speed control.

Cost Estimates and Shop Advice

The cost of replacing a blower motor can vary depending on the vehicle make and model, as well as the labor rates in your area. Generally, you can expect to pay between $150 and $450 for the entire job, including parts and labor. The blower motor itself typically costs between $50 and $200, while labor costs can range from $100 to $250. Some vehicles, especially those with more complex HVAC systems, may require more labor time, increasing the overall cost.

Shop Advice:

Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several local mechanics or repair shops to get estimates for the repair. This will help you ensure you're getting a fair price.
Ask About Warranty: Inquire about the warranty on the replacement blower motor and the labor. A reputable shop will typically offer a warranty of at least one year on parts and labor.
Read Reviews: Before choosing a repair shop, read online reviews to get an idea of their reputation and quality of service.

Credibility and Common Failure Points

Blower motor failure is a common issue across many vehicle makes and models. There are no widespread recalls related to blower motors specifically, but some manufacturers have issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) addressing specific issues with blower motor performance or noise. For example, a TSB might address a problem with the blower motor resistor or a specific installation procedure for a particular vehicle model. Consulting TSB databases (available online or through your mechanic) can provide valuable insights into known issues with your vehicle's blower motor.

Community data, gathered from online forums and owner surveys, suggests that blower motor failure is most common in vehicles that are 5-10 years old, with mileage ranging from 75,000 to 150,000 miles. However, these are just averages, and blower motors can fail at any time due to the factors discussed above. Preventative maintenance, such as regularly cleaning the air intake vents and avoiding prolonged operation at high speeds, can help extend the lifespan of your blower motor.

In conclusion, a malfunctioning blower motor can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and recommended fixes, you can take proactive steps to address the issue and ensure your comfort and safety on the road. Whether you choose to tackle the repair yourself or entrust it to a professional, being informed is the key to a successful outcome.