Replace the blower motor resistor, which controls the HVAC blower motor speed, located behind the glove box on the passenger side.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Blower motor resistor × 1 — Motorcraft YH-1960 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
2. Allow HVAC system to cool if vehicle was recently operated
3. Gather all tools and replacement parts
4. Open passenger door fully for better access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box contents and stop arm
   Empty all contents from the glove box. Open the glove box and locate the damper arm on the right side. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release it from the stop arm, then lower the glove box completely down for full access to the area behind it.
2. 2

   Locate the blower motor resistor
   With the glove box lowered, use a flashlight to locate the blower motor resistor. It is mounted on the passenger side of the HVAC housing, typically on the lower right side. The resistor will have an electrical connector attached and is secured by screws.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the wiring harness connector attached to the blower motor resistor. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight off the resistor. You may need to wiggle it gently while pulling. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
4. 4

   Remove resistor mounting screws
   Using a 7mm socket or nut driver, remove the two screws securing the blower motor resistor to the HVAC housing. Keep these screws in a safe place as they may be reused if in good condition. The resistor should now be free to remove.
   Torque spec

   Resistor Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Extract old resistor
   Carefully pull the blower motor resistor straight out from the HVAC housing. There may be a rubber seal or gasket attached to the resistor. Inspect the mounting area on the HVAC housing for debris, leaves, or signs of water intrusion.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean mounting area
   Check the HVAC housing opening for any debris, dirt, or corrosion. Clean the mounting surface with a clean, dry cloth. Inspect the old resistor for signs of burning, melting, or corrosion which indicates the failure cause. If the resistor shows signs of overheating, also inspect the blower motor for restricted operation.
7. 7

   Install new resistor
   Ensure the new blower motor resistor has a proper seal or gasket installed. Align the resistor with the mounting holes in the HVAC housing and carefully insert it straight into the opening. The resistor should seat flush against the housing.
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting screws
   Insert the two mounting screws and hand-tighten them first to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench with a 7mm socket, tighten the screws to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the resistor. Do not overtighten as this may crack the resistor housing.
   Torque spec

   Resistor Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the terminals on the new blower motor resistor. Push the connector straight onto the resistor until you hear or feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall glove box
    Raise the glove box back into position. Align the sides with the dash opening and squeeze the sides inward to clear the stop arms. Push the glove box closed and verify it operates smoothly and latches properly.

Reassembly

1. Ensure electrical connector is fully seated and locked before closing glove box
2. Verify all tools and old parts are removed from the passenger footwell area
3. Replace any items that were removed from glove box

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
• Test all blower motor speed settings (typically 1-4 or low-medium-high) to ensure each speed operates correctly
• Listen for unusual noises from the blower motor during operation
• Verify airflow increases appropriately with each speed setting
• Check that the blower motor turns off completely when switched to the off position
• Ensure no rattles or loose components when operating the blower at various speeds
• Start engine and retest all blower speeds with engine running to confirm proper operation under load

More procedures for this vehicle