electrical
Blower Motor Control Module
for 2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.1 h
Tools
5
Steps
8
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the blower motor control module (also called the blower motor resistor or power transistor) located in the HVAC system of a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with 2.5L I4 engine.
Warnings
⚠The blower motor control module can become very hot during operation. Allow the HVAC system to cool for at least 30 minutes before beginning work.
ℹ️This module is located behind the glove box on the passenger side of the vehicle.
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Extension setEssential
Flathead screwdriver or trim toolEssential
Flashlight or work light
Torque wrench (5-15 Nm range)Essential
Parts
- Blower motor control module (power transistor) × 1 — 87165-42010 or equivalent
Preparation
- Turn off the ignition and remove the key or fob from the vehicle
- Turn off all HVAC controls and allow the system to cool if recently operated
- Open the passenger door and adjust the seat fully back for working room
Procedure
- 1Remove glove boxOpen the glove box and remove all contents. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the damper arms from their slots on both sides. Lower the glove box completely down past its normal stop point to access the area behind it.
- 2Locate the blower motor control moduleUsing a flashlight, look up and to the right behind the glove box opening. The blower motor control module is a rectangular aluminum heat sink component mounted to the HVAC housing, typically silver or black in color with a wiring harness connector attached.
- 3Disconnect electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector on the blower motor control module. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight away from the module. You may need to wiggle it gently while pulling to release it from the module pins.
- 4Remove module mounting boltsUsing a 10mm socket with extension, remove the two mounting bolts securing the blower motor control module to the HVAC housing. Note the orientation of the module for reinstallation. Carefully pull the module away from the housing.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 5Inspect mounting areaCheck the HVAC housing mounting surface for debris, corrosion, or damage. Clean the mounting surface if necessary to ensure proper heat transfer from the new module. Inspect the wiring harness connector for any signs of heat damage, melting, or corrosion.
- 6Install new blower motor control modulePosition the new blower motor control module in the same orientation as the original. Ensure the heat sink portion makes full contact with the HVAC housing for proper cooling. Install the two mounting bolts finger-tight first, then torque to specification using a torque wrench.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 7Reconnect electrical connectorPush the electrical connector firmly onto the blower motor control module until you hear or feel a positive click. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged by gently tugging on the connector.
- 8Reinstall glove boxRaise the glove box back into position. Align the damper arms with their slots on both sides of the glove box opening and push the sides outward until the arms snap into place. Close and open the glove box to verify proper operation.
Reassembly
- Ensure the glove box opens and closes smoothly with proper damper function
- Double-check that the electrical connector is fully seated and locked
Verification
- Start the vehicle and turn on the HVAC system
- Test all blower motor speed settings (1, 2, 3, 4, and high) to verify smooth operation at each level
- Listen for any unusual noises or confirm consistent airflow at each speed setting
- Verify that the blower motor speed changes smoothly when adjusting the fan control
- Allow the system to run for several minutes and verify no burning smell or warning lights appear