electrical
Blower Motor Resistor
for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
48 min
Tools
5
Steps
10
This procedure replaces the blower motor resistor, which controls the speed of the HVAC blower motor. The resistor is located behind the glove box on the passenger side.
Warnings
⚠Ensure the ignition is off and key is removed before beginning work to prevent accidental blower motor activation
ℹ️The blower motor resistor may be hot if the HVAC system was recently in use. Allow time to cool if necessary
Tools required
Phillips screwdriverEssential
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Trim panel removal tool set
Flashlight
Torque wrench (0-15 Nm range)Essential
Parts
- Blower motor resistor × 1 — Use OEM specification for 2.5L Tucson
Preparation
- Turn off the ignition and remove the key from the vehicle
- Allow HVAC system to cool for at least 10 minutes if recently operated
- Open the passenger door fully for access to the glove box area
- Clear the glove box of all contents
Procedure
- 1Remove glove boxOpen the glove box fully. Locate the damper arm on the right side and disconnect it by pushing it off the pin. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the side stops, then lower the glove box completely and remove it from the dashboard opening.
- 2Locate the blower motor resistorWith the glove box removed, look toward the right side of the blower motor housing. The resistor is mounted on the side of the blower motor housing and has a wiring harness connector attached. It is typically held in place by 2-3 screws.
- 3Disconnect electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector on the blower motor resistor. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight out to disconnect it from the resistor. Ensure you do not pull on the wires themselves.
- 4Remove resistor mounting screwsUsing a Phillips screwdriver or appropriate socket, remove the screws securing the blower motor resistor to the housing. There are typically 2-3 screws. Keep these screws as they will be reused during installation.Torque specResistor Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
- 5Remove old resistorCarefully pull the blower motor resistor straight out from the housing. You may need to wiggle it slightly to release it from the seal or mounting position. Inspect the mounting area for debris or damage.
- 6Inspect and clean mounting areaExamine the blower motor housing mounting surface for any corrosion, debris, or damage. Clean the area with a dry cloth. Check that the seal on the new resistor is intact and properly positioned.
- 7Install new resistorAlign the new blower motor resistor with the mounting holes on the blower motor housing. Push it firmly into place, ensuring it seats properly against the housing. The electrical connector should be easily accessible.
- 8Install and torque mounting screwsInsert the mounting screws and hand-tighten them first to ensure proper alignment. Then torque the screws to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can crack the resistor housing.Torque specResistor Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorPush the electrical connector firmly onto the blower motor resistor until you hear or feel it click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
- 10Reinstall glove boxPosition the glove box back into the dashboard opening. Push the sides outward slightly and lift it up so the side stops engage behind the dashboard. Reconnect the damper arm to the pin on the right side. Close and open the glove box to verify smooth operation.
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly locked
- Verify glove box opens and closes smoothly without binding
- Confirm no tools or parts were left in the work area behind the glove box
Verification
- Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine
- Test all blower motor speed settings (1, 2, 3, and 4) to ensure each speed functions correctly
- Listen for smooth operation without unusual noises or vibrations at each speed
- Verify that the blower motor turns off completely when set to the OFF position
- Check that air flows properly through all selected vent positions
- Confirm no air leaks are present around the glove box area during blower operation