If the temperature of the air from your car's air-conditioning system is just right, except that it's not coming out at the right speed, there might be a problem with the blower motor. The blower motor is a part of your car's A/C system that pushes heated or cooled air out of the vents based on the selected settings. The blower motor can fail and require replacement. To find out more about the blower, what to do if you suspect yours is giving you issues, and how to replace this part, keep reading.

How the Blower Motor Works

Most vehicles' blower motors use a centrifugal fan design. Unlike the familiar blade fans you might have at home, a centrifugal blower uses a wheel of forward-curved blades that spins inside a housing. When the motor turns this wheel, it pulls air in from the center and flings it outward using centrifugal force, creating powerful, consistent airflow through your vehicle's heating and cooling system. This design is perfect for automotive use because it's efficient at moving air against the resistance of your vehicle's ductwork and filters.

When you turn on your climate control, the electric motor spins the centrifugal fan wheel, which can rotate hundreds or thousands of times per minute. Air gets drawn into the center of the wheel, and then the curved blades accelerate it outward, creating pressure that pushes air through your car's ventilation system. This design is especially good at maintaining steady airflow even when it's working against the resistance of dirty cabin air filters or partially blocked vents. It's also more compact than traditional blade fans, which is crucial in the tight spaces under your dashboard.

Types of Blower Motors

Let's take a look at the different types of blower motors you might come across when it's time for a replacement.

Variable-Speed Motors with Resistor Pack

If you're driving a car from the late '90s or early 2000s, you probably have this type of blower motor. It's a clever system that uses a device called a resistor pack to give you those different fan speeds you're used to. When you turn your fan speed dial, you're actually choosing how much power goes to the motor.

Electronically Controlled Motors (ECM)

If you have a newer vehicle with automatic climate control, you're likely using one of these advanced motors. They're the smartphones of the blower motor world--computerized, efficient, and precise. These motors can make tiny adjustments to keep your cabin temperature just right, and they do it while using less energy and creating less noise.

Basic Single/Dual Speed Motors

These straightforward motors are the reliable workhorses you'll find in older vehicles or basic models. They keep things simple with just one or two speeds--think of them as an on/off switch or a high/low option. While they might not offer the precise control of newer systems, they're incredibly reliable and usually less expensive to replace.

How to Choose a Blower Motor

Vehicle Compatibility

To guarantee a proper fit and the original level of performance, ensure that you're getting a blower motor specific to your vehicle, as they can differ between models and even model years.

Aftermarket or OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) blower motors are typically made by authorized manufacturers, whereas aftermarket blower motors are made by third-party manufacturers.

We recommend investing in OEM blower motors to return your vehicle to its original level of performance. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Not to mention, aftermarket units may void your vehicle's warranty.

Symptoms of a Failing Blower Motor

Weak or No Airflow from Vents

One of the main symptoms of a failing blower motor is weak or no airflow from the vents. The blower motor is the part responsible for pushing air through the vents, so if it's not working right, it might blow air weakly or not at all.

Unusual Noise (Grinding, Squealing)

If you hear unusual noises such as grinding or squealing, it's usually an indication that a foreign object has made its way into the blower motor. You should get it checked as soon as possible, as the object might damage fragile parts like the fan blades.

Inconsistent or Fixed Airspeed

If the air is coming out of the vents intermittently and at various speeds or at a fixed speed, there could be a problem with the blower motor or other parts in your A/C system. Get an accurate diagnosis from a mechanic.

Burning Smell When the System Is Running

If you smell burning smells while the system is running, the blower motor is likely damaged. Get your car checked as soon as possible.

Routine Blower Motor Maintenance

You can carry out these steps yourself or with the help of a professional to prolong the lifespan of your car's blower motor.

Clean and Replace Air Filters

Clean and replace the air filters regularly to reduce the strain on the blower motor and reduce noise.

Keep Blower Motor Fan Blades Debris-Free

Make sure the fan blades are free from debris, as they might contaminate the air and cause damage to parts.

Replacing Your Blower Motor

If you need to replace your blower motor and are not experienced and don't have the right tools, you might want to leave this job to an automobile professional. Otherwise, you can follow the steps below to remove and install the blower motor.
1. Turn off the ignition and disconnect the battery
2. Remove any panels or covers to gain access to the blower motor
3. Disconnect the electrical connectors
4. Remove the old blower motor by first removing any screws or clips holding it in place
5. Put the new blower motor in place and install it by reversing the above steps

Where to Buy Quality Used Blower Motors

Buy a used blower motor in good condition and at a competitive price with Japan's leading auto parts exporter--BE FORWARD Auto Parts today!