Replace the HVAC blower motor control module (power module/resistor) on a 2024 Model S Plaid. The module is located adjacent to the blower motor under the passenger-side dash and regulates blower speed via PWM signal from the climate control system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Blower motor control module (power module / PWM controller) — manufacturer-specified for Model S Plaid 2024 × 1 — Refer to VIN-specific Tesla parts catalog

Preparation

1. Park on level ground, place in P, engage parking brake.
2. Exit ALL doors with key fob away from the vehicle. Wait at least 2 minutes for HV systems to fully de-energize, even on this non-HV job.
3. Disconnect the low-voltage battery: on 2024 Plaid this is typically the 16V lithium unit under the rear seat; some configurations retain a 12V unit in the frunk under the nose cowl. Verify location for your specific VIN before proceeding.
4. DO NOT touch, cut, or pierce ANY orange cable — these are high-voltage and lethal.
5. If at any point you encounter an orange cable, an HV component, or are unsure if a system is de-energized: STOP and consult a Tesla-certified technician.
6. Set climate control fully OFF prior to power-down to avoid storing a fault state.
7. Move the front passenger seat fully rearward and recline for access to the lower dash area.
8. Have the replacement control module ready and inspect for shipping damage before installation.

Procedure

1. 1

   Confirm fault before disassembly
   If a scan tool is available, read HVAC DTCs and confirm the blower control module is the failed component (e.g. open/short on PWM signal, blower inoperative at all speeds, or runs only at full speed). This avoids replacing a good module when the fault is the blower motor itself or wiring.
2. 2

   Remove passenger-side lower dash trim
   Using a plastic trim tool, release the lower dash trim panel under the passenger glovebox area. Disconnect any footwell light or ambient lighting connector as the panel is lowered. Set the panel aside on a soft surface to avoid scratching the soft-touch finish.
   ⚠Do not yank the panel — disconnect electrical connectors as they become accessible to avoid breaking the pigtails.
3. 3

   Remove glovebox assembly (if required for access)
   Open the glovebox and remove the manufacturer-specified fasteners securing it to the dash structure. Disconnect any glovebox lamp/sensor connectors and remove the assembly to expose the HVAC housing on the passenger side.
4. 4

   Locate the blower motor control module
   The control module is mounted to the HVAC blower housing, typically adjacent to the blower motor itself. It will have a finned heatsink protruding into the airflow path and a multi-pin electrical connector. Visually identify it before disconnecting anything.
5. 5

   Disconnect the control module electrical connector
   Release the connector lock tab and gently pull the harness connector straight off the module. Inspect the pins for corrosion, melting, or backed-out terminals — any of these indicate a wiring issue that must be resolved or the new module will fail again.
   ⚠Melted or discolored connector housings indicate excessive current draw — investigate the blower motor for binding before installing a new module.
6. 6

   Remove the control module fasteners
   Remove the screws securing the control module to the blower housing. These are typically small machine screws threading into the plastic HVAC case. Support the module as the last fastener is removed.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Withdraw the failed module
   Carefully pull the module straight out of the housing — the heatsink fins must clear the airflow channel without snagging. Inspect the housing seal/gasket and check for debris (leaves, pet hair) that may have caused overheating.
8. 8

   Inspect blower motor and housing
   With the module out, spin the blower wheel by hand to check for binding, wobble, or bearing roughness. A failing blower motor draws excess current and is the most common root cause of repeat control module failures. Replace the blower if any abnormality is found.
9. 9

   Install the new control module
   Align the new module with the housing opening, ensuring the heatsink seats fully into the airflow path and any sealing gasket is properly positioned. The module should sit flush against the housing.
   ℹ️Verify the replacement is the correct part for the Plaid's HVAC system — Tri Motor Plaid may use a different module than RWD/Long Range trims.
10. 10

    Secure the new module
    Install the mounting screws and tighten evenly. Do not overtighten — these thread into plastic and will strip easily.
    Torque spec

    Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect the harness connector
    Push the connector squarely onto the module pins until the lock tab clicks. Tug gently on the connector body (not the wires) to confirm full engagement.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the glovebox assembly and reconnect any glovebox electrical connectors. Torque any bracket fasteners to OEM specification — refer to Tesla Service Manual.
2. Reinstall the lower dash trim panel, reconnecting footwell/ambient light connectors before fully seating the panel. Press all trim clips fully home.
3. Return the passenger seat to its original position.
4. Reconnect the low-voltage battery, observing the correct polarity. Torque the battery terminal hardware.
5. Allow the vehicle to wake fully (touchscreen boots, MCU comes online) before testing — this typically takes 30-60 seconds.

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and open the climate control screen on the MCU.
• Cycle the blower fan through all speed settings from minimum to maximum — verify smooth, progressive speed changes with no dropouts, no buzzing, and no unusual odor.
• Set climate to Auto and confirm the system modulates blower speed in response to cabin temperature commands.
• If a scan tool is available, clear any HVAC DTCs that were stored and confirm no new codes return after a 10-minute run cycle.
• Check airflow at all dash and footwell vents to confirm no air leaks were introduced during disassembly.
• While the dash is open, this is also a good opportunity to replace the cabin air filter if it is approaching its 3-year service interval (HEPA-equipped Model S Plaid uses the bioweapon defense filter).

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