Blower resistor?

I have a 94 318i E36. Fan iether works on all speeds or it doesn't. Doesn't seem to matter whether car has been driven or not. Most of the time it works, but sometimes, nothing. Fan doesn't make any odd noises.

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: BMW Blower Resistor Replacement

[Wayne 962]

Indeed, it does sound like it might be a blower resistor problem. I would follow the instructions in this article and replace it before moving on to other potential causes.

- Wayne

[ht325i]

I was wondering would this location of the blower resistor be the same for my '90 325i E30?? Or atleast somewhat similar to find? I might have the same problem as mine works on the HIGH speed only.

[bostogrun]

They are usually located behind the drivers side kick panel right ahead of the counsel. It is a contraption that looks like an miniature electric heater with some resistor springs.

What they do is slow down the motor with steps of electrical resistance. The excess electrical energy is dissipated in the form of heat. That's why they are prone to failure. When they get too hot they burn out. When the low speed resistance, acheived with coiled resister wire, is toasted all the juice runs straight to the blower motor. It would be strangely analogous to a car that always runs at wide open throttle and relies on the brakes to slow down!

[ht325i]

Thanks bostogrun for the response and explaination, I'll have to check it out tomorrow.