Blower does not work except with the windows down

FREDY01

MEMBER
1997 LEXUS ES 300
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
220,000 MILES

The blower for my car only works in one scenario that I am aware of: when I am driving ~40 MPH or faster with my windows rolled down and the fresh air and auto buttons pressed. (I have tried this while attempting to heat the car, not cool it down.)

Other than that, warm air only leaks out of the vents and I don't believe the blower is on at all.

I do not get any error codes when running the diagnostics.

I can try replacing the resistor if you think it is best to start there. My only other hint is that there might be an issue with the ground since I get feedback through my speakers when pressing the accelerator.

Where should I start?

Thanks

Thursday, January 16th, 2020 AT 1:03 AM

5 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,796 POSTS

Good morning,

There is no real connection between the 2 systems, They do share ground locations.

I have attached the location of the grounds for the 2 systems. Clean them up with a wire brush and reinstall them and try it.

Roy

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Thursday, January 16th, 2020 AT 3:14 AM

FREDY01

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3 POSTS

Thanks, Roy. I'll do this Monday and update the thread.

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Thursday, January 16th, 2020 AT 11:27 PM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,796 POSTS

You are welcome.

Keep us updated.

Roy

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Friday, January 17th, 2020 AT 1:25 AM

FREDY01

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hi Roy,

It seems I misdiagnosed the problem initially. Air flows through the system while driving with the windows down and fresh air mode active, but the blower does not turn on at all.

I'll use the FSM to diagnose the blower unless you recommend a better way.

Thank you!

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Monday, January 20th, 2020 AT 10:29 PM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,796 POSTS

Okay, I attached the wiring diagram for you of the blower motor. You need to verify power to the motor with the key in the on position. There should be power there. After the motor will be the resistor that varies the speeds depending on demand.

I also attached the steps for checking the relay.

Roy

REMOVAL
1. REMOVE THESE PARTS:
a. Cowl side trim RH
b. Front door scuff plate RH
c. No.2 instrument panel under cover
d. Glove compartment
e. W/ CD Auto Changer:
Instrument upper finish panel
f. W/ CD Auto Changer:
CD auto changer
g. Audio amplifier
h. ECM

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2. REMOVE CONNECTOR BRACKET SET SCREWS

3. REMOVE BLOWER UNIT
a. Disconnect the connectors from blower unit.
B. Disconnect the wire harness clamps.
C. Disconnect the evaporator temp. Sensor connector clamp.
D. Remove the 2 screws, bolt and nut, then remove the blower unit.

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