Weak blower motor, minimal airflow

STEVETOWNS

MEMBER
2007 KIA SPORTAGE
2.0L
3 CYL
TURBO
4WD
MANUAL
100,600 MILES

Had the blower motor replaced last year after the old one failed completely. New one works but never with the same power.
It has now just stopped blowing almost altogether. The motor can be heard, the temperature of what tiny bit of air comes out is correct to the setting, but it’s so weak it won’t clear the windscreen when set on max blow and heat.
Dodgy motor or could this be that resistor thingy?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

If the resister was bad, you would only hear the motor run when it is on high. All other settings would fail. Other than a weak motor, or poor electrical connection, the only thing I can think of is if the cabin air filter is plugged. Have you ever chanced it? It is behind the glove box and easy to replace. Actually, remove it and close the door where it's removed and see if air flow changes.

Here are the directions for replacing the filter I mentioned. If it is really dirty, it could affect the air flow.

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REPLACEMENT

1. Open the glove box. Lower the glove box down completely by removing the tension cord (A) and the glove box stopper (B) to the glove box.

Picture 1

2. Remove the filter cover (A) with pushing the knob.
3. Replace the air filter (B).

Picture 2

NOTE:
In case of driving in an air-polluted area or rugged terrain, check and replace the air filter as frequently as possible.

Replacement period: 15,000 km (9320 mile)

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Check that and let me know what you find.

Joe

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