Where to find the blower motor in a car?

The blower motor is part of the HVAC system and sits inside the heating and cooling housing behind the dashboard, most often on the passenger side behind the glove box. Access usually requires removing a dash panel or the glove box.

Typical locations inside the vehicle

Across modern cars, the blower motor is housed within the HVAC plenum behind the dashboard. The most common access point is the glove box on the passenger side, though some designs place the unit under the dash in the passenger footwell or behind a kick-panel near the firewall.

• Behind the glove box on the passenger side, inside the HVAC housing


• Under the dash in the passenger footwell, with access through a lower dash panel


• Behind the center console or near the firewall in some trucks and larger SUVs


• Through a removable panel on the passenger-side kick panel in certain European or specialty models

Because layouts vary widely, the exact access point can differ even within the same make. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or a repair guide for your model.

How to access and inspect the blower motor

If you’re planning to inspect or replace the blower motor, these steps outline a typical approach. Some steps may differ by model, so consult your service manual for specifics.

1. Park the car, set the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal to reduce the risk of short circuits while you work.


2. Open the glove box or remove the lower dash panel to expose the HVAC housing and locate the blower motor at the rear of the plenum.


3. Disconnect the electrical connector from the blower motor; note how it plugs back in for reinstallation.


4. Check the fuse for the HVAC blower and inspect visible wiring for damage or loose connections.


5. If the motor doesn’t run on any speed, the blower motor itself is a likely fault; if it runs only on certain speeds, the blower resistor is a common culprit.


6. Remove the blower motor mounting bolts and the resistor (if accessible) to free the motor for testing or replacement; keep track of screws and spacers.


7. Test the motor by applying a known good 12-volt supply to the motor’s input terminal (only if you’re comfortable doing so) or replace with a new unit; reassemble once tested.

After finishing, reconnect all wiring, reinstall dash panels, and test the HVAC system across all speeds to confirm proper operation.

When to seek professional help

While many DIY enthusiasts can locate and service the blower motor, some models place the unit behind hard-to-remove dashboards or under the center console, making replacement more challenging. If the motor or wiring looks damaged, you’re uncomfortable with the steps, or your vehicle’s service manual recommends specialist tools, consider a repair shop.

Summary

In most cars, the blower motor sits inside the HVAC housing behind the dashboard, usually on the passenger side behind the glove box. Access typically requires removing the glove box or a small dash panel; exact placement varies by make and model. If you are attempting an inspection or replacement, consult your manual and proceed with safety precautions, as the process involves electrical wiring and dash components. When in doubt, a professional mechanic can locate, test, and replace the blower motor and related components like the blower resistor or fuse.

Where is the blower motor in my car?

It's got ground. So that means the fan motor is probably bad we'll pull it out and check it. There's three bolts holding it on so unbolt the three bolts. Then the motor assembly comes right out.

How to check blower motor in car?

To check a car's blower motor, first find its location (usually under the dashboard) and disconnect the electrical connector. Use a multimeter to test for voltage at the connector while the car's ignition and fan switch are on to see if it's getting power. If there's voltage but no air flow, test the motor's resistance or bench test it by applying 12V power directly to see if it spins. 
This video demonstrates how to test a blower motor for voltage: 59sFlashback502YouTube · Jun 6, 2018
Step 1: Locate and access the blower motor 

• Find the blower motor, which is typically under the passenger side of the dashboard.
• Consult your car's manual if you have trouble locating it.
• Disconnect the wire harness from the motor. 

Step 2: Test for voltage at the connector 

• Turn the car's ignition on and set the fan speed to high. 
• Set a multimeter to the DC voltage setting and connect the probes to the connector pins. 
• A healthy reading should be around 12 volts on high speed. 
• If you don't get a voltage reading, the problem is likely with the wiring, fuse, relay, or switch, not the motor itself. 

Step 3: Test the motor's resistance 

• If there is voltage at the connector, disconnect it from the motor again. 
• Set the multimeter to the ohms setting. 
• Touch the probes to each terminal on the blower motor's electrical connector. 
• A reading within a specific range (check your repair manual for exact values) indicates the motor is likely working. A "no reading" or "infinite" resistance suggests the motor is bad. 

This video shows how to test the resistance of a blower motor: 55sCarsNToysYouTube · Mar 14, 2024
Step 4: Bench test the motor (optional)

• For a direct test, use a 12V power source (like a car battery or jump starter) to supply power to the motor directly.
• Connect the positive and negative terminals to the corresponding pins on the motor.
• A working motor will spin when power is applied. Be careful not to let the leads touch each other, and keep the fan away from anything that could be caught in it. 

Is it easy to replace a blower motor in a car?

Replacing a car's blower motor is typically a manageable DIY project that requires basic tools like screwdrivers and socket wrenches, but can be difficult depending on the vehicle's make and model due to tight spaces. The process generally involves disconnecting the battery, removing the lower dash or glove box to access the motor, and then removing and replacing the unit. Some vehicles may require more complex steps like removing the dashboard, while others can be done in under an hour. 
Before you begin
This video provides a good overview of the tools and steps involved in replacing a blower motor: 57sCarsNToysYouTube · Mar 14, 2024

• Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting to prevent electrical shorts. 
• Gather your tools: You will likely need socket wrenches, screwdrivers, and possibly needle-nose pliers. 
• Get the correct replacement motor: Ensure the new motor matches the specifications of your old one. 
• Change the cabin air filter: This is a good time to replace the cabin air filter, as you'll have easy access to it. 

Step-by-step guide
This video demonstrates how to remove the blower motor from the car's dashboard: 56sDude We Can Fix ItYouTube · Jun 25, 2023

1. Access the blower motor:
   • Remove any panels or the glove box that block access to the motor, which is typically located under the passenger-side dashboard. 
   • Gently disconnect any clips and clips to avoid breaking them. 
2. Disconnect the old motor: 
   • Locate and unplug the electrical connector from the motor. 
   • Remove the screws or bolts that hold the blower motor housing in place. There are typically three to six. 
3. Remove the old motor: 
   • Carefully slide the motor assembly out of its housing, being mindful of the squirrel cage fan blades. 
4. Install the new motor: 
   • If necessary, transfer the blower wheel to the new motor. 
   • Slide the new motor into the housing and re-install the screws or bolts. 
   • Plug in the electrical connector. 
5. Reassemble and test:
   • Replace the trim panels and the glove box. 
   • Reconnect the negative battery terminal. 
   • Start the vehicle and test the new blower motor to ensure it is working properly. 

Tips and considerations

• Take pictures: Take photos of the wiring and assembly before disconnecting anything to help with reinstallation. 
• Don't pull on wires: When disconnecting the electrical connector, press the release tab instead of pulling on the wires. 
• Check other components: On some vehicles (like many GM models), it's advisable to replace the blower motor resistor at the same time, as the two parts often fail together. 
• Consider professional help: If your vehicle has a complicated dash layout or you are uncomfortable with the process, a professional mechanic can complete the job for you. 

How much does it cost to replace a blower motor in a car?

The total cost to replace a car's blower motor is typically between $250 and $600, but can range from $150 to over $1,000 depending on the vehicle and specific parts. The cost includes parts (which can range from about $80 to $650) and labor (which can take 2 to 3 hours at an hourly rate of $75 to $150). 
This video explains the costs associated with blower motor replacement: 1mLearnToDIY360YouTube · Mar 24, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost of the blower motor itself can range significantly, from around $80 for basic models to over $650 for more complex or high-end units. Some parts may be sold with the resistor as a kit for a combined price. 
• Labor: Labor costs vary based on your location and the mechanic's hourly rate, which can be between $75 and $150 per hour. The job often takes 2 to 3 hours, but can take longer for vehicles where the motor is in a difficult-to-access location. 
• Resistor: If the blower motor resistor also needs to be replaced, this adds to the total cost, as the price for the resistor can range from about $70 to over $600. 
• Taxes and Fees: These will be added to the final bill. 

What affects the cost

• Vehicle: The specific make and model of your car plays a big role in both parts and labor costs. Some vehicles, like a 2010 Ford Fusion, are estimated at a lower total cost ($277-$600) than others, like a 2012 Mazda 3 Sport, which is estimated around $662. 
• Part type: Choosing an energy-efficient, variable-speed motor will likely cost more than a single-speed one. 
• Part brand: The brand of the replacement part can influence the price. High-quality, OEM parts may be more expensive than aftermarket options. 
• Labor rates: The hourly labor rates at a dealership or an independent mechanic can vary. 

How to save money

• Get multiple quotes: Get quotes from at least two or three different mechanics to compare pricing. 
• Do it yourself: If you have mechanical skills, you can save a significant amount on labor by replacing the motor yourself. 
• Buy your own parts: Purchase the part yourself and ask the mechanic to install it. This can sometimes be cheaper than buying the part from the shop.