What causes a car blower motor to go bad?
The blower motor in your car is a critical component of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It ensures proper airflow inside the cabin, keeping you comfortable in all weather conditions. However, like any mechanical or electrical part, the blower motor can fail over time. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of blower motor failure and how to address them.
1. Electrical Issues
One of the most common reasons for a blower motor to fail is electrical problems. These can include:
- Blown Fuses: A fuse protects the blower motor from electrical surges. If the fuse blows, the motor will stop working.
- Faulty Wiring: Damaged or corroded wiring can interrupt the power supply to the blower motor, causing it to malfunction.
- Bad Resistor: The blower motor resistor controls the speed of the motor. If it fails, the motor may only work at one speed or stop functioning altogether.
2. Worn-Out Bearings
The blower motor relies on bearings to spin the fan blades smoothly. Over time, these bearings can wear out due to friction and lack of lubrication. When this happens, you may hear unusual noises like squealing or grinding, and the motor may eventually seize up.
3. Debris and Obstructions
Debris such as leaves, dirt, or small objects can find their way into the blower motor housing. This can obstruct the fan blades, causing the motor to overheat and fail. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the HVAC system can help prevent this issue.
4. Overheating
Overheating is another common cause of blower motor failure. This can occur due to prolonged use at high speeds, insufficient ventilation, or a clogged cabin air filter. When the motor overheats, its internal components can become damaged, leading to failure.
5. Age and Wear
Like any mechanical part, the blower motor has a finite lifespan. Over time, the motor's components can wear out due to regular use. If your car is older or has high mileage, the blower motor may simply be reaching the end of its service life.
How to Prevent Blower Motor Failure
While some causes of blower motor failure are unavoidable, regular maintenance can help extend its lifespan. Here are a few tips:
- Replace the cabin air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow and reduce strain on the motor.
- Inspect and clean the HVAC system to remove debris and obstructions.
- Have the electrical system checked periodically to identify and fix any wiring or resistor issues.
- Listen for unusual noises and address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
The blower motor is an essential part of your car's HVAC system, and its failure can lead to discomfort and inconvenience. By understanding the common causes of blower motor issues and taking preventive measures, you can keep your car's HVAC system running smoothly. If you suspect a problem with your blower motor, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin's Autos for a professional diagnosis and repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
