If you want to know why you have a car fan that only works on high, you likely have a problem with the blower motor resistor. Find out why this happens and if you should replace the blower motor and blower motor resistor together with these tips from our expert mechanics.
Fixes for a Car Fan That Only Works on High
New Blower Motor or Blower Motor Resistor
If the vent fan in your car is only blowing at certain speeds like high or not at all, you most likely have a problem with the blower motor resistor but there could be a problem with the blower motor.
You need power and ground for the blower motor to work. When you turn the fan on, the blower motor will run at a fast setting. A resistor will slow it down by limiting the amount of power going to the blower motor.
If the blower motor is only working on certain speeds, it’s usually because the resistor has burnt up, causing the blower motor to draw too much current from the resistor.
Should I Replace the Blower Motor and Blower Motor Resistor Together?
If you just replace the resistor, the blower motor could burn up again. Replacing both will prevent this. They are easy to change and you’ll save time having both repaired instead of fixing one of these parts later.
How to Replace the Blower Motor and Blower Motor Resistor
Replacing the blower motor and blower motor resistor is a job beginner DIYers can do
Steps to replace the blower motor
- Disconnect the electrical connector
Disconnect the electrical connector from the blower motor
- Unscrew screws from blower motor
Loosen the screws from the blower motor to remove it
- Remove the Screws from the Blower Motor Resistor
With the blower motor loosened, remove the blower motor resistor by removing the screws
How-to Videos to Install Parts
Learn how to install parts on many different models. Follow the step-by-step instructions in our how-to videos and learn how to replace parts like the blower motor and blower motor resistor yourself.
