What causes a car blower motor to go bad?
The car blower motor is responsible for circulating air through the vehicle's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. When this motor fails, it can result in a lack of airflow and a malfunctioning HVAC system. There are several common reasons why a car blower motor may go bad, including electrical issues, mechanical problems, and environmental factors.
Electrical Issues
One of the primary causes of a failing blower motor is an electrical problem. This can include a faulty blower motor resistor, a bad blower motor relay, or a problem with the wiring or fuses in the HVAC system. Electrical issues can cause the blower motor to stop working entirely or operate at reduced speeds.
Mechanical Problems
Mechanical issues can also lead to a blower motor failure. Over time, the bearings in the motor can wear out, causing the motor to seize up or run noisily. Debris or foreign objects can also get stuck in the blower motor, preventing it from spinning freely and leading to premature failure.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors, such as exposure to moisture, heat, or corrosive substances, can also contribute to a blower motor going bad. Moisture can cause the motor's internal components to rust or short out, while extreme temperatures can put additional strain on the motor and lead to premature wear.
Symptoms of a Failing Blower Motor
- Reduced or no airflow from the HVAC vents
- Blower motor running at a single speed or not at all
- Unusual noises, such as grinding or squealing, coming from the blower motor
- Blower motor running continuously, even when the HVAC system is turned off
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your car's HVAC system inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue before it leads to further damage or a complete HVAC system failure.
How much does it cost to replace a blower motor in a car?
between $342 and $362
The average cost for a Blower Motor Replacement is between $342 and $362. Labor costs are estimated between $68 and $86 while parts are priced between $274 and $276. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What causes a blower motor to burn out?
Some of the reasons a blower motor might fail are overheating, and excessive moisture. When dust, dirt, and debris build up, it can cause the windings and bearings to burn up more quickly.
Can you drive with a bad motor blower?
SMOKE OR SMELL WHEN DRIVING
In that case, immediately pull over. A burned blower motor cannot exactly damage your car but you are not sure that the smoke is coming from the blower motor. Such signs indicate damage and you must tow it to a mechanic before turning the engine back on.
What causes a blower motor to go out in a car?
They fail on their own quite often. Repeated failures are typically caused by excessive current draw from the blower motor (usually caused by tight bearings), or restricted airflow past the resistor causing overheating (plugged cabin air filter, dirty heater core or A/C evaporator).
What breaks a blower motor?
One of the more common problems in a blower motor is the bearings. Bearings surround the motor shaft, allowing it to run smoothly at high RPM with almost no friction. When the bearings go bad, the motor may make a grinding or screeching sound, or not run at all because of the friction preventing the motor from turning.
How long should a car blower motor last?
In general, a blower motor should last for the lifetime of your vehicle if it is properly maintained. However, it is not uncommon for blower motors to fail prematurely due to factors such as wear and tear, corrosion, or electrical issues.
Can I drive with a bad blower motor?
SMOKE OR SMELL WHEN DRIVING
In that case, immediately pull over. A burned blower motor cannot exactly damage your car but you are not sure that the smoke is coming from the blower motor. Such signs indicate damage and you must tow it to a mechanic before turning the engine back on.
Why would a blower motor go bad?
An HVAC blower motor will occasionally fail due to age, wearing out, or not being cleaned regularly. Symptoms may include strange noises, burning smells, or just plain refusing to turn on.
What causes a car blower motor to fail?
A car blower motor develops problems due to: Electrical problems such as faulty switch, blown fuse, damaged resistor or control module, bad relay (if it uses one), and corroded, melted, or loose connectors. Debris becoming lodged in the blower motor fan assembly.
Can you drive with a bad blower motor?
SMOKE OR SMELL WHEN DRIVING
A burned blower motor cannot exactly damage your car but you are not sure that the smoke is coming from the blower motor. Such signs indicate damage and you must tow it to a mechanic before turning the engine back on.
