General Question

trypaw's avatar

Why could my heater resister in my car keep blowing out?

Asked by trypaw (332points) April 5th, 2013

Hello,
I have a 1998 dodge stratus 2.4 engine, and 2 weeks ago the blower motor resister went out, so I replaced it. Then 6 day later it blew again, hoping it was just a dud, I went out and got another one. Ten days later it went out again (yesterday evening). I had my blower motor tested before the 2nd one went out about a week ago, and it tested at 12 something.. I can’t quite remember what, but my mechanic said it was a little low for my blower motor but it was within range and it “should” be fine. I’m now stuck wondering what to do? The blower motor in my car isn’t the easiest one to replace, and I’m not even sure that’s where the problem lies. If it is not the blower motor any other ideas on why my car keeps blowing my heater resisters? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

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3 Answers

Tropical_Willie's avatar

I’d go with a new blower motor. Number one reason the resistor would blow out multiple times is the motor.

Tropical_Willie (31488points)“Great Answer” (3points) Flag as…
Paradox25's avatar

Your blower motor resistors are what controls the motor rpm (speed). The resistors are usually in series and motor speed is controlled by restricting current. On many models the high speed setting will bypass the resistors to run at full speed, so the resistors are only used to attain slower rpm. Excessive current is causing your resistor/s to open (or burn out) so my guess would be either a problem with the motor, or a problem with the wiring like a short circuit.

Paradox25 (10223points)“Great Answer” (2points) Flag as…
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