Blower Fan high setting not working properly

2001 CHEVROLET ASTRO
100,000 MILES • 4.3L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
THENIGHTOWL
  • MEMBER
  • 16 POSTS
I recently noticed if I turn my fan on high for A/C or heat, it runs on high for a second or 2 then nothing at all, but it blows on the lower selections.
I assume a relay is at fault? Which relay would it be?
Thank you
Aug 22, 2020 at 7:16 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
I am attaching the info on this. I assume you are correct that the relay is most likely the issue. The way this works is when you put the switch to high it closes the relay and sends battery voltage directly to the motor which is the high setting. All other settings the relay is open and the voltage passes through 1,2, or 3 resistors depending on how fast it needs to spin.

If you want to confirm this you can check voltage coming out of the relay when on high. I suspect it will be 12 volts and then the relay will open and it will drop to 0 or open circuit.

Let me know if you have questions. Thanks
Aug 22, 2020 at 10:23 AM
Avatar
THENIGHTOWL
  • MEMBER
  • 16 POSTS
Thank you. Will give it a shot on my next day off.
Aug 22, 2020 at 12:41 PM
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
Sounds great. Let us know how you make out. Thanks
Aug 23, 2020 at 11:46 AM
Avatar
THENIGHTOWL
  • MEMBER
  • 16 POSTS
Well, I figured I would start by pulling the relays in the fuse box under the hood. I remember when it first happened, 1 of those relays was extremely hot but didn't remember which. I pulled the big one for A/C, and the smaller one beside it. Wrote down the part numbers if I needed to buy one. Plugged both back in and the fan now works on all speeds. I guess time and dirt and dust messed with the contacts?
Aug 25, 2020 at 2:59 PM
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
It is normally the simplest things. I think you are exactly correct as to what the issue was. Thanks for updating us with that info. I am sure that info will surely help others. Thanks
Aug 26, 2020 at 10:57 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.