Do I need a new blower motor or resistor?
If your car's heating or air conditioning system is not working properly, it could be due to an issue with the blower motor or the blower motor resistor. Determining which component needs to be replaced can be tricky, but this article will guide you through the process step-by-step.
Symptoms of a Faulty Blower Motor or Resistor
The blower motor is responsible for circulating air through the HVAC system, while the blower motor resistor controls the speed of the blower motor. If either of these components fails, you may experience the following issues:
- Blower motor not working at all (no air flow)
- Blower motor only working at one speed (high or low)
- Blower motor cycling on and off rapidly
- Burning smell coming from the HVAC system
These symptoms can indicate a problem with the blower motor, the blower motor resistor, or potentially both components.
Diagnosing the Issue
To determine if you need a new blower motor or resistor, you'll need to perform some basic troubleshooting steps:
- Check the blower motor fuse - If the fuse is blown, replace it. If it blows again, there may be an issue with the blower motor or wiring.
- Test the blower motor - Disconnect the blower motor and use a multimeter to check if it's receiving power and operating correctly. If the motor is not working, it likely needs to be replaced.
- Test the blower motor resistor - With the blower motor disconnected, use a multimeter to check the resistance of the resistor. If the resistance is outside the normal range, the resistor needs to be replaced.
By following these steps, you can isolate the faulty component and determine whether you need a new blower motor or blower motor resistor.
Replacing the Faulty Component
Once you've identified the issue, you can proceed with replacing the necessary part. Be sure to consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions on how to access and replace the blower motor or resistor. It's also a good idea to have the new part on hand before starting the repair to avoid any delays.
Remember, if you're not comfortable performing the repair yourself, it's always best to have a professional mechanic handle the job to ensure it's done correctly and safely.
How do I know if my resistor is bad?
Checking a Resistor
Turn off power to the resistor and disconnect it from the circuit. Then, connect the 2 leads on a multimeter to the 2 legs on the resistor. Also, look for signs of damage on the resistor, like blackening or charring.
Will a blower motor work without the resistor?
The blower motor pushes air through the vents - the resistor controls the motor's speed.
How do I know if my cooling fan resistor is bad?
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Cooling Fan Resistor?
- Cooling fan never stops running even with the ignition off.
- Cooling fan never kicks in and engine temperature increases abnormally.
How do I know if it's the blower motor or the resistor?
Blower Motor Resistor Test
Typically, if the fan will work on some speeds but not on others, the resistor is suspect. Okay, let's say there's no melting going on, but your fan doesn't work on all speeds. Typically, if the fan will work on some speeds but not on others, the resistor is suspect.
What is the life expectancy of a blower motor?
10 to 20 years
Blower motors are designed to last just as long as your furnace itself, anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Just as with any HVAC system, the better maintained and serviced your equipment is by experienced HVAC technicians the longer it will last and the fewer repairs you'll face.
Is it worth replacing a blower motor?
Replacing the blower motor is likely the best decision if your furnace is under warranty or relatively new. It might be better to replace the furnace if it's old or has a lot of issues that require frequent repairs. On average, a new blower motor costs $300 to $900.
How do I know if I need to replace my blower motor?
You should replace your blower motor when you notice the following signs:
- Weak Airflow. The first indication that you have a faulty blower motor is when the airflow out of your air conditioner is weak.
- No Airflow.
- Unusually High Energy Bills.
- Strange Sounds.
- Overheating.
Do I need to replace the blower motor resistor?
- Reduced Airflow: If the resistor is failing, you may experience a loss of fan speeds. This means you might not be able to adjust the airflow to your desired level, which can make it uncomfortable, especially in extreme weather.
- Potential Overheating: In some cases, a failing resistor can cause
How do you know if your blower motor is bad?
6 Signs of a Bad AC Blower Motor
- Understanding Your Motor Type. The first thing to know is that there are different types of blower motors.
- Weak Airflow From Your Vents.
- No Airflow.
- Unusual and Loud Sounds.
- Climbing Utility Bills.
- Overheating.
- Tripping Circuit Breaker.
- Keeping an Eye on Your Blower Motor.
What happens when a resistor fails?
This can have several consequences. The resistance value can shift permanently, the lifetime can be significantly reduced, or the resistor is completely damaged resulting in an open circuit. In extreme cases the excessive power can even melt or catch on fire.
