Blower Motor and Regulator Replacement Guide

  • Tools Required

    • T20 Screwdriver

  • Disconnect Battery

    Make sure the vehicle battery is disconnected before starting this DIY. Working on a vehicle with electrical power increases the risk of short circuiting fuses.

  • Remove Passenger Footwell Cover

    The blower motor is housed in the dashboard, under the passenger side footwell cover. Simply remove the two T-20 screws holding it into place.

  • Unplug Main Blower Motor Connector

    Unplug the main blower motor electrical connector by depressing the two side mounted push clips.

  • *NOTE

    Apply even pressure to both side clips and ensure they're fully depressed before trying to unplug the connector.

  • Twist Blower Motor Assembly Clockwise

    Loosen the blower motor assembly by firmly grabbing it and twisting it clockwise to unlatch it from the dashboard.

  • Remove Blower Motor

    Once fully loosened, remove the blower motor assembly from the dashboard by pulling it out ensuring you don't damage the surrounding electrical components.

  • Inspect Old Blower Motor

    Carefully examine the factory blower motor assembly to determine the cause of its failure. In the example shown, you can see clear signs of rust on the main bearing, indicating water damage. Additionally, the assembly is covered in dust, and a loose piece of copper wiring is visible—likely caught during operation or detached due to wear and tear over time. These are common signs that the blower motor has failed, either from damage or simply old age.

  • Unplug Regulator Electrical Connector

    Unplug the blower motor regulator electrical connector by depressing the two side mounted clips and sliding it from the regulator.

  • Remove Old Regulator from Housing

    Remove the blower motor regulator from the old blower motor by removing the two T-20 screws holding it into place.

  • Inspect Old Regulator

    Take a close look at the factory blower motor regulator to identify why it has failed. In this case, the regulator is coated with an aqua-white residue and visible water spots, clear indicators that water has seeped in from the windshield. This water intrusion has likely caused the regulator to malfunction, making it necessary to replace it to restore proper functionality.

  • Inspect New Regulator

    Carefully examine the new blower motor regulator for any imperfections before installation. As shown, our BAVMODS® Premium Line Regulator is in flawless condition, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Replace your faulty regulator with confidence and restore your AC system’s peak performance.

    Purchase our BAVMODS® Premium Line Blower Motor Regulator 
  • Install New Regulator to New Blower Motor

    Install the new regulator to the new assembly by hand-tightening the two T-20 screws removed from the old regulator. Ensure they're fully tightened down so the new regulator sits flush, but do not over-tighten.

  • Plug New Blower Motor to Regulator

    Plug in the new blower motor to the new regulator by plugging in the connector until it makes an audible latching noise.

  • Refit New Blower Motor into Dashboard

    Carefully reinstall the new blower motor into the vehicle’s dashboard, ensuring that all connectors and wiring are securely positioned and clear of the installation path. Double-check that no wires are pinched or obstructing the assembly to guarantee a smooth and proper fit. This attention to detail will help ensure optimal functionality once installed.

  • Re-install Main Blower Motor Connector

    Reinstall the main vehicle to blower motor connector until it's fully latched into place and makes an audible noise.

  • Test Start Vehicle

    Re-connect the vehicle battery and turn the engine on. Allow to idle for 2 minutes.

  • Turn On Heater

    Turn on vehicle heater to max hot setting with fan speed at full power.

  • *NOTE

    It’s normal for a new blower motor to produce irregular noises during its initial use. This happens because the plastic components are brand new and have not yet settled into their final shape. However, if the irregular noises persist after several days or weeks, it could indicate improper installation or that a connector or wiring is obstructing the fan. Double-check the installation to ensure everything is securely in place and free from interference.

  • DIY Complete

    Good job replacing your BMW's blower motor and regulator! Keep an eye on the rest of your heating system to ensure everything is working properly.