1998 Camry - Loud Fan on High

[Houston54]

The 98 Camry LE I just picked up has a very loud a/c-heat fan when on the high setting. Drowns out the radio in fact. I know the fan is located behind/under the glovebox but how difficult is it to remove/replace? Can the part be obtained at the local FLAPS (Friendly Local Auto Parts Store).

[Mike Gerber]

Removing the fan assembly is not too bad, as long as you don't mind working on your back under the passenger side of the dash board. Push the front passenger seat as far back as it will go to give you more room. Stick your head under there and removal should be fairly obvious. Remove the fan assembly and check for obstructions in the fan blades (actually a roller wheel). Many times leaves or other debry get in there. If no obstructions are found, then check the nut that holds the roller wheel to the fan motor itself. If it's tight, then your motor is probably shot. Remove the roller wheel and connect 12 volts to the fan motor. If it makes the noise, you have isolated the problem to a bad fan motor. Places like NAPA should carry the fan motor. Call around to a few auto parts stores in your area.

Mike

[Houston54]

Thanks for the clear and quick reply. I will take out the blower/fan assembly this weekend and see what may be the cause of the problem.