1998 328iC Blower Motor Not Working

[rdp2n]

The blower motor in my newly-purchased 1998 328iC appears not to be functioning. What is a reasonable way to troubleshoot this issue? How challenging is replacing the blower motor?

Thanks,


Rob

[bimmer_boyis]

Being a '98 I will assume this is IHKA(digital display). First step is going to be checking for power and signal to the final stage resistor. I'm pretty sure if you use the search function you can find a DIY. 9 times out of 10 this is the issue, not the blower itself.

[rdp2n]

Thanks, bimmer_boyis -- this is very helpful. Will do --

Rob

[Brashland]

First step is going to be checking for power and signal to the final stage resistor. I'm pretty sure if you use the search function you can find a DIY. 9 times out of 10 this is the issue, not the blower itself.


Good advice. My ac has gone out 2 times and it's been the final stage resistor both times.

[rdp2n]

OK -- That was it. Based on the VIN, I purchased a (cheap $39) replacement resistor from Bavarian Auto. It wasn't too bad to replace even in the blazing sun. PelicanParts.com has a documented procedure. Basically, it was 2 philips screws one each side of the steering wheel to pull back the panel above the brake & accelerator pedals. Disconnected 3 wires to a blower (?) and light on this panel. There is a push-pin on the right side of the panel that I couldn't figure out and didn't want to crack/force/break, so I left it in place, connected and worked around it. (One of the most irritating aspects of working on cars is constantly encountering unfamiliar connections -- electrical/bodywork that I can't find instructions on how to release without breaking).
The old resistor was secured by 2 T-20 torx screws, underneath the dash, up and to the right. Top screw was a bit awkward but got it with a torx socket on a 6 inch socket extension bar. Put it back with tight finger pressure in case I need to do this again.
Blower works again -- Thanks again for advice --


Rob

[rdp2n]

OK -- That was it. Based on the VIN, I purchased a (cheap $39) replacement resistor from Bavarian Auto. It wasn't too bad to replace even in the blazing sun. PelicanParts.com has a documented procedure. Basically, it was 2 philips screws one each side of the steering wheel to pull back the panel above the brake & accelerator pedals. Disconnected 3 wires to a blower (?) and light on this panel. There is a push-pin on the right side of the panel that I couldn't figure out and didn't want to crack/force/break, so I left it in place, connected and worked around it. (One of the most irritating aspects of working on cars is constantly encountering unfamiliar connections -- electrical/bodywork that I can't find instructions on how to release without breaking).
The old resistor was secured by 2 T-20 torx screws, underneath the dash, up and to the right. Top screw was a bit awkward but got it with a torx socket on a 6 inch socket extension bar. Put it back with tight finger pressure in case I need to do this again.
Blower works again -- Thanks again for advice --


Rob