Where is the blower motor on a 16 Ford Focus?
The blower motor in a 2016 Ford Focus sits inside the heating/air conditioning HVAC housing behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dash, and you’ll typically access it by removing the glove box and a panel in the knee area.
The blower motor powers the fan that pushes heated or cooled air through the vehicle’s HVAC ducts. In the Focus, the motor is mounted to the HVAC plenum, generally tucked behind the glove box. When the motor or its resistor begins to fail, symptoms can include weak airflow, no airflow at certain speeds, or unusual noises. Access usually requires a bit of interior trim removal and, as with many Ford models, disconnecting the battery before you begin.
Location and quick identification
Use this quick guide to identify where to look for the blower motor and related components.
- HVAC housing located behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dash
- Blower motor attached to the housing with several screws or bolts (typically 2–4)
- Electrical connector that powers the blower motor
- Nearby blower resistor (often in the same housing area on many models)
Visibility and access can vary slightly by trim level, but the general location remains the same: inside the dash, behind the glove box.
How to access or replace the blower motor
Prepare the vehicle safely and gather the necessary tools before starting. The following steps outline the typical process for a 2016 Focus; consult the repair manual for your exact trim if anything seems different.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent any electrical shorts while you work.
- Open and drop the glove box, releasing its damper and any stops so you can access the area behind it.
- Remove any trim panels or knee-panel covers as needed to expose the HVAC housing and blower motor mounting screws.
- Unplug the blower motor’s electrical connector from the harness.
- Unscrew the mounting screws/bolts securing the blower motor to the HVAC housing.
- Carefully pull the blower motor straight out of its housing through the access opening.
- Install the replacement motor, reattach screws/bolts, and reconnect the electrical connector.
- Reassemble the glove box and any trim panels, then reconnect the battery.
- Test the HVAC system at multiple speeds to ensure proper airflow and operation.
Note: If you’re uncertain about the process or encounter unusual wiring or mounting hardware, consult the vehicle’s service manual or seek professional assistance to avoid damaging the HVAC system.
Summary
In a 2016 Ford Focus, the blower motor is located inside the HVAC housing behind the passenger-side glove box. Access typically requires removing the glove box and a portion of the dash trim. By following the steps above, you can inspect, replace, or reseat the motor and restore normal air flow in the HVAC system. If you’re not comfortable performing the work, a qualified technician can complete the replacement and ensure proper reassembly.
