HVAC not working properly?

Tiny
JBSIMMONS10
  • MEMBER
  • 1992 SAAB 9000
  • 2.3L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 40,000 MILES
I have a UK spec vehicle listed above CD Turbo. When I try to run the A/C or heating, the four-option selector knob only works on the fourth (highest) setting and it makes an incredibly loud noise. I have taken it to a mechanic shop here and they believe it is either the blower motor or the blower motor resistor/speed regulator? I am trying to figure out how to fix the issue and get my car's A/C heating to work on any speed and not make a worrying noise the entire time. I don't know where to check to locate my blower motor/blower motor resistor on the vehicle and before I can even see if the part still exists anywhere, I want to make sure I have the right part # for the vehicle. Any help with this issue would be appreciated.
Tuesday, November 22nd, 2022 AT 4:29 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

When the blower motor only runs on high, it is usually the resister. The idea that it makes a lot of noise may indicate the blower motor is failing. That could be the cause of the resister failure.

I don't have the specs for the UK model you mentioned, but they should be either the same or very similar. Of course, it may be on the opposite side of the dash. LOL

I attached the directions below for removing and replacing the resistor that I have. Again, they should be very similar.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below. Note what I highlighted in pic 1 and let me know if relates to your vehicle.
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Tuesday, November 22nd, 2022 AT 9:51 PM
Tiny
JBSIMMONS10
  • MEMBER
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Thank you, this definitely helps! I will likely disassemble the components blocking access to the blower motor, and then replace the resistor and the blower motor itself.
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Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022 AT 12:08 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. Also, I think it's a good idea to replace the blower motor at the same time. Since it was making noise, it's likely to have been drawing too much amperage causing the resister failure.

If you have a chance, let me know how things turn out for you. I'm interested in knowing.

Take care of yourself,

Joe
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Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022 AT 7:02 PM
Tiny
JBSIMMONS10
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Apologies for the long wait, it has taken forever to track down the parts I needed. I ended up replacing the blower motor and blower motor resistor and it has completely fixed problem. My heating and a/c now both work on all settings! Thank you again.
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Thursday, January 5th, 2023 AT 12:55 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

Thank you for the update. I'm glad to hear you got the problem resolved.

Feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions or need anything.

Take care,

Joe
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Thursday, January 5th, 2023 AT 1:58 PM

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