AC only works on full blast

[flumoxed]

Recently picked up a 1990 535i and I'm in love with the car so far. :D

Only problem is that the AC only works when set to full blast. Is replacing the blower motor my only option? Any other ideas?

[E34N]

Could also be your "sword"

http://www.bmwe34.net/Wiki/tiki-index.php?page=Fan+Blower+and+Sword

[flumoxed]

Thanks for that guide, very informative. I'll check in the morning if I have the blower series resistance *crosses fingers*

[sfgearhead]

Can you hear the fan on lower settings? If so you probably just have a clogged filter, not sure what year they started, the FAQ will likely say.

I think the sword and filter are roughly in the same spot so it's not 2x the word to check both.

[BavarianFanatic]

I'll bet a dollar it's the sword. Classic failure mode - only works on high...