This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the blower motor assembly located in the HVAC housing under the passenger side dashboard of a 2015 Kia Forte.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Blower motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification (Kia 97113-A7000 or equivalent)
• Blower motor resistor (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Turn off all HVAC controls and ignition.
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes minimum.
4. Remove passenger floor mat and inspect for moisture or debris that may indicate drain tube blockage.
5. Adjust passenger seat fully rearward for working clearance.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower passenger side trim panel
   Locate and remove the lower dash trim panel on the passenger side. Remove the plastic push clips and fasteners securing the lower kick panel. Gently pull the panel away from the dash, releasing any remaining clips. Set panel aside in a safe location.
2. 2

   Access blower motor housing
   Position yourself in the passenger footwell with adequate lighting. Locate the blower motor housing on the right side of the HVAC unit behind the glove box area. The motor housing is cylindrical and mounted vertically. You may need to partially lower or remove the glove box for improved access by removing the damper arm and hinge pins.
3. 3

   Disconnect blower motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the blower motor. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor terminals. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Note the connector orientation for reassembly.
4. 4

   Remove blower motor mounting screws
   Using a 7mm socket or nut driver, remove the three blower motor mounting screws arranged around the motor housing flange. These screws secure the motor to the HVAC housing. Support the motor with one hand while removing the final screw to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Blower Motor Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove blower motor assembly
   Carefully rotate and wiggle the blower motor assembly to break the seal from the housing. Pull the motor assembly straight out of the HVAC housing. The motor and fan cage assembly will come out as a single unit. Be prepared for debris or moisture to fall during removal.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean blower housing
   With the blower motor removed, inspect the HVAC housing opening for debris, leaves, or moisture accumulation. Use a shop vacuum to remove any debris. Check the rubber seal on the motor flange for damage. Inspect the blower fan cage for damage or imbalance. If only the motor is faulty, the fan cage can typically be transferred to the new motor.
7. 7

   Inspect blower motor resistor
   Locate the blower motor resistor module mounted near the blower motor housing. If the blower had intermittent speed issues or only worked on high speed, inspect the resistor connector for burning or corrosion. If replacement is needed, remove the two mounting screws and disconnect the electrical connector.
   Torque spec

   Blower Motor Resistor Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Install new blower motor assembly
   Ensure the new blower motor has the fan cage properly attached and balanced. Align the motor flange with the HVAC housing opening, ensuring the mounting screw holes line up. Push the motor assembly into the housing until the flange seats fully against the housing. The rubber seal should compress evenly around the perimeter.
9. 9

   Install and torque blower motor screws
   Install the three blower motor mounting screws by hand, starting each screw before tightening any. Using a torque wrench, tighten the screws in a crossing pattern to 4.0 Nm (3.0 lb-ft). This ensures even pressure on the seal and prevents motor misalignment.
   Torque spec

   Blower Motor Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the blower motor terminals, ensuring it clicks into place securely. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connector to confirm it is locked.
11. 11

    Reinstall trim panels and glove box components
    Reinstall the glove box damper and hinge pins if removed. Reinstall the lower passenger dash trim panel by aligning the clips and pressing firmly until all clips are seated. Reinstall any fasteners removed during disassembly.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and test system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Test the blower motor at all speed settings (1-4) to verify proper operation. Listen for unusual noises, vibration, or weak airflow that might indicate improper installation or a defective part.

Reassembly

1. Torque all fasteners to specification using a calibrated torque wrench.
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before testing.
3. Verify all trim panels are securely clipped and do not rattle after reassembly.

Verification

• With the engine running, test blower motor operation at all four speed settings. Airflow should increase progressively with each speed selection.
• Listen for any unusual noises such as squealing, grinding, or rattling from the blower motor area.
• Verify airflow is normal from all vents in all mode positions (defrost, panel, floor).
• Check for any air leaks around the blower motor housing that would indicate improper seal seating.
• Confirm no warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster after reconnecting the battery.

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