e36 cabin blower doesn't work

[The Lukas]

I thought I'd best ask, especially with winter coming

So my 318is climate control has been working well, untill the fan stopped blowing air into the cabin any better than it does on the lowest 'standby' setting. This will be a problem as I need the car for early mornings and it's getting cold

Thanks

[pat_y]

is the fan speed changing when you request more power? Or is is just poor air flow all the time no matter how fast the fan runs?

[Ritchie335is]

The Lukas said:

I thought I'd best ask, especially with winter coming

So my 318is climate control has been working well, untill the fan stopped blowing air into the cabin any better than it does on the lowest 'standby' setting. This will be a problem as I need the car for early mornings and it's getting cold

Thanks

My 318i touring has the same problem.

(sits back and waits for somebody with an answer)

[E30M3SE]

Probably the blower final stage resistor, aka 'the hedgehog'.

[Liquid Knight]

I removed the complete system from my car let me know what you need. Rob

[The Lukas]

The indications on the screen say it increases, but the fan speed does not. It stays on the lowest setting.

[pat_y]

95% sure it will be the final stage resistor, Description shamelessley stolen from the internet:
This resistor housed on the rear of the climate control unit is a common failure. Common symptoms are where the air distribution frequently cuts in or out on it's own accord. For E46, E39 and X5 it is located on the driver's side above the left side of the pedal box. The E36 is on the passenger side. Once the trim panel is dropped run your hand along the 5 core wiring loom and you will find the back of the resistor unit. It is held in place with 2 x torx screws. These are made by Meyle or Hella.
around £45 for the unit or even better if you can get one from Mr Liquid Knight.

[griffter]

I've just fixed the very same symptoms by replacing the hedgehog - officially known as the final stage output resistor.

It's an easy swap - easier on RHD than LHD due to no pedals being in the way, and the glovebox dropping out easily.

Google e36 final stage output and find some instructions. I got them from bimmerforums but have now run out of 'unregistered' access!

[The Lukas]

Bought the final stage resistor in faith of your judgment. I now have a fully working climate control system.

[Gretchen]

The Lukas said:

Bought the final stage resistor in faith of your judgment. I now have a fully working climate control system.

Did you replace the unit yourself? If so, was it easy to locate and complete?

I have nothing blowing at all from my unit at any speed. It's done this before, was dead for a week or so then came back to life. Now nothing is working! And research has led me here...

[The Lukas]

Gretchen said:

The Lukas said:

Bought the final stage resistor in faith of your judgment. I now have a fully working climate control system.

Did you replace the unit yourself? If so, was it easy to locate and complete?

I have nothing blowing at all from my unit at any speed. It's done this before, was dead for a week or so then came back to life. Now nothing is working! And research has led me here...

Yes was pretty easy with a small socket set and screwdrivers. I got it done in 20mins and I'm not the most hands on person to be honest.

[JJM]

This should help...

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=...

Also I got my replacement hedgehog from these guys. Original new part with warranty for about £45.

http://www.motormec.co.uk/default.htm

[Gretchen]

Thanks for the replies.

I found a few DIY threads which made the process looked relatively easy... However, despite deciding to attempt taking a look this afternoon (in case the wiring is loose, etc) I'm now incapacitated and unable to move from the neck down due to a trapped nerve!! (happened prior). So I won't be driving for a few days

Johnny has instead been enjoying my car, or so the remark 'it's a bit slidey out there' followed by a big grin has led me to believe...