This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the blower motor control module (also known as the blower motor resistor or power transistor) in a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Blower motor control module (power transistor) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Module connector gasket/seal (if damaged) × 1 — Often included with module

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition.
2. Disconnect battery negative terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
3. Wait at least 3 minutes after battery disconnection for airbag system to discharge.
4. Open passenger door and adjust seat fully back for working room.
5. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box assembly
   Open the glove box fully. Locate the damper arm on the right side of the glove box and disconnect it by squeezing the damper connector and pulling it free. Squeeze both sides of the glove box inward to release the stops from the dashboard frame, then lower the glove box completely downward to remove it from the opening. Set aside carefully.
2. 2

   Locate blower motor control module
   With the glove box removed, look into the opening on the passenger side toward the center console area. The blower motor control module is mounted to the HVAC housing, typically positioned vertically with cooling fins visible and a wiring harness connector attached. Use a flashlight to clearly identify the module location before proceeding.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the blower motor control module. Press down on the locking tab (usually on top or side of connector) while pulling the connector straight away from the module. If the connector is difficult to access, gently wiggle it side to side while applying pulling pressure. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
   ⚠Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage. Clean with electrical contact cleaner if necessary before installing new module.
4. 4

   Remove module mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting screws or bolts securing the blower motor control module to the HVAC housing. Typically there are 2-3 mounting screws. Using a 10mm socket or appropriate screwdriver, remove all fasteners completely and set them aside in a secure location. Note the orientation and position of the module before removal.
   ℹ️Some modules may have a rubber gasket or seal around the electrical connector area. Keep this gasket if it is in good condition for reuse.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove old blower motor control module
   Once all fasteners are removed, carefully pull the module away from the HVAC housing. The module may be tight due to the sealing gasket. Gently wiggle and pull straight out to avoid damaging the mounting tabs or housing. Inspect the mounting area and gasket seal on the housing for debris or damage.
6. 6

   Prepare new module for installation
   Remove the new blower motor control module from its packaging. Compare it to the old module to verify correct part match (mounting holes, connector orientation, cooling fin design). If a new gasket or seal is included, install it onto the new module according to manufacturer instructions. Ensure the seal is properly seated before installation.
7. 7

   Install new blower motor control module
   Position the new module in the same orientation as the old one was installed. Align the mounting holes with the threaded inserts or holes in the HVAC housing. Ensure the gasket seal makes proper contact with the housing surface. Insert mounting screws or bolts by hand first to ensure proper thread engagement.
8. 8

   Torque module mounting fasteners
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the module mounting bolts to specification in a cross-pattern if multiple bolts are present. This ensures even pressure on the gasket seal and prevents leaks or vibration. Verify the module is firmly seated against the housing without gaps.
   ⚠Do not overtighten mounting bolts as this can crack the plastic housing or strip threads in the HVAC case.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the socket on the new blower motor control module. Push the connector straight onto the module until you hear or feel a positive click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked in place.
10. 10

    Reinstall glove box assembly
    Position the glove box assembly back into the dashboard opening. Squeeze the sides inward and lift upward until the stops on both sides engage with the dashboard frame. Reconnect the damper arm to the glove box by pushing the connector until it clicks into place. Close and open the glove box several times to verify proper operation.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and verify no warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster. If a check engine or climate control warning was present before the repair, it may need to be cleared with a scan tool.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are fully seated and locked.
2. Verify glove box operates smoothly and damper functions correctly.
3. Check that no tools or fasteners were left in the HVAC area before closing up.

Verification

• Start the engine and turn on the climate control system.
• Test all blower motor speed settings (typically 1-4 or variable speed) to verify the motor operates at each setting.
• Verify smooth speed transitions without hesitation, surging, or unusual noises.
• Check that airflow volume changes appropriately with each speed setting.
• Let the system run for 5-10 minutes at various speeds to ensure the new module does not overheat or fail.
• Verify no burning smell or electrical odors are present during operation.
• Confirm any previous diagnostic trouble codes related to blower motor operation do not return.

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