[gmercedesbenz]

So as the cold weather has start to set in and I've been using the heat more and more, I've started to notice a high pitched squeak or whine coming from the vents when the blower is set to speed 3 or 4. The sound increases in intensity the higher the fan speed. I'm assuming it's the blower unit itself. Any ideas on how to fix this or is it even worth trying?

 

[gmercedesbenz]

Don't know if anyone else was having this issue, but I believe the problem is the blower motor itself, I think I'm gonna order one from Advance next time I get a chance. Hanye's book makes replacement look relatively simple. Remove the cover underneath the glove box, disconnect electrical connector, remove 4 bolts, and it should just slide out. (Let's hope)

 

[UK PONY]

Not had this on the Escape (yet) but had the same issue on a Jeep Cherokee - you're correct in thinking it's the blower motor. In theory you ought to be able to strip it down & grease it but if a replacement isn't too costly then just replace it.

Keep us posted on how accurate Mr. Haynes is - he has a tendancy to forget to mention how much of a P.I.T.A. some jobs are .

 

[SilverAthlon]

I agree, I had this issue in my previous vehicle, and it was the blower motor, didn't take the time to ever replace it though.

 

[gmercedesbenz]

Problem Solved!
Turned out to be the blower motor. I ordered a new one from advance auto parts and installed it today in the parking lot at my college :lol:
Mr. Hanye's did fail to mention a few things....turned out to be a little more in depth then the book will lead you to believe.

Here's a quick walkthrough with some pictues.

First thing was to access the blower motor unit. It is located under the passenger dashboard to the extreme right next to the kick panel. You can't miss it.

Next, remove the power connector from the old unit.

Remove the three bolts securing the old unit with a 5/16 socket.

The entire blower motor and blade assembly come out. The next part is really fun if your vehicle is older. You have to remove the blade assembly from the blower unit and attach it to the new one. Sticking out of the top of the blade assembly there is a metal grommet securing the blades to the motor. Your new motor should include a new grommet. Remove the old grommet. If your vehicle is older like mine, chances are your blade assembly will not come off too easily, because of rust on the motor spindle. Work with it, it will come off eventually. I found WD-40 to do the trick. Just be careful, the blade assembly is still just plastic.

Here is the new motor

Installing new motor

After you install blade assembly onto the new motor, reinstall it using the 3 bolts, wire up the connection, and enjoy a new blower motor!