electrical

Blower Motor Resistor

for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
48 min
Tools
5
Steps
11

This procedure replaces the blower motor resistor, which controls the HVAC fan speed settings in the 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Ensure the ignition is off and the key is removed before beginning work to prevent unexpected blower motor operation.
ℹ️The blower motor resistor is located on the passenger side under the glove box. Work area is tight but accessible without major disassembly.

Tools required

Phillips screwdriverEssential
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Trim panel removal tools
Flashlight or work light
Torque wrench (1-10 Nm range)Essential

Parts

  • Blower motor resistor × 1 — 87138-06100 or equivalent

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and turn off ignition, removing the key
  2. Allow HVAC system to cool if recently operated
  3. Open passenger door for comfortable access to workspace
  4. Ensure all HVAC controls are in the OFF position

Procedure

  1. 1
    Access glove box area
    Open the glove box and remove all contents. Locate the glove box damper on the right side and disconnect it by pushing the damper arm off its mounting point. This allows the glove box to drop further for access.
  2. 2
    Lower glove box assembly
    Press inward on both sides of the glove box where the stops contact the frame. This allows the glove box to swing down past its normal stopping point, providing clear access to the blower motor area behind it. The glove box remains hinged and does not need to be fully removed.
  3. 3
    Locate blower motor resistor
    With the glove box lowered, look toward the passenger side footwell area. The blower motor resistor is mounted on the side of the blower motor housing, typically visible as a rectangular module with an electrical connector and two mounting screws. Use a flashlight to clearly identify the component.
  4. 4
    Disconnect electrical connector
    Locate the electrical connector attached to the blower motor resistor. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight out from the resistor. The connector may be tight; avoid pulling on the wires themselves. If resistance is felt, ensure the locking tab is fully depressed.
  5. 5
    Remove resistor mounting screws
    Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the two screws securing the blower motor resistor to the blower motor housing. These screws are typically located at the top and bottom of the resistor module. Keep screws in a safe location for reinstallation.
  6. 6
    Extract old resistor
    Carefully pull the blower motor resistor straight out from the blower motor housing. It may require slight wiggling to break any seal. Inspect the old resistor for signs of burning, melting, or corrosion which indicate the cause of failure.
  7. 7
    Inspect mounting area
    Examine the mounting surface on the blower motor housing for debris, corrosion, or damage. Clean the mounting area if necessary to ensure proper electrical contact and heat dissipation. Check that the rubber seal or gasket area is clean and free of damage.
  8. 8
    Install new resistor
    Align the new blower motor resistor with the mounting holes on the blower motor housing. Ensure any gasket or seal on the resistor is properly positioned. Push the resistor firmly into place until it seats completely against the housing.
  9. 9
    Install and torque mounting screws
    Thread both mounting screws by hand to prevent cross-threading. Once both screws are started, tighten them in an alternating pattern to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as the resistor housing can crack.
    Torque spec
    Resistor Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
  10. 10
    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align the electrical connector with the resistor terminals and push firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked and will not come loose during vehicle operation.
  11. 11
    Restore glove box position
    Raise the glove box back to its normal position, ensuring the side stops properly engage with the frame. Reconnect the glove box damper by snapping the damper arm back onto its mounting point on the right side. Test glove box operation to ensure smooth opening and closing.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure the electrical connector is fully locked before testing
  2. Verify the glove box opens and closes smoothly with proper damping action
  3. Return all items to the glove box

Verification

  • Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine
  • Test all blower motor speed settings (1, 2, 3, and high) to verify each speed functions correctly
  • Listen for smooth blower motor operation without unusual noises
  • Verify airflow changes appropriately with each speed selection
  • Check that the blower motor turns off completely when set to OFF position
  • If any speed setting does not work, recheck the electrical connector engagement and resistor mounting

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