Heat problems

[cowboyili]

I have a 98 grand prix gtp, 3.8l and the whole works. My heat and air were never really blowing hard and less than a year ago I replaced the blower motor. Despite the low flow, my car still got really hot when I had the heat on. So, there were no complaints from me. I don't need something that blows with a lot of force as long as it does what it's supposed to do well. Last night I was with my friends and had the heat on for a good couple of hours and for some reason it stopped. Nothing was coming out of the vents. I dont know if it's the blower motor or what because the last time my blower motor went out, it made this very loud and annoying screeching sound. Now, theres no sounds. No sound of a motor running or blowing air or anything. The worst part is, Winter just started. So now i wouldnt even be able to defrost my windshield or anything. Does anyone know what a common cause of this is or what needs to be replaced or looked at? This is very irritating that it started right at the beginning of winter because I could have lived with it during summer, obviously. Any help would be VERY much appreciated. Thanks!

[BNaylor]

The best thing to do is remove the blower and bench test it by jumping 12 v directly to it. If it works you can rule out the blower. If not you probably have another bad blower.

Since you have a GTP, I am assuming you have a dual digital climate control system. If the blower works, the next item to look at would be the blower motor control module.

[cowboyili]

thanks for your reply. one question - the last time my blower motor went out it made a really loud screeching noise which i guess is a sure fire way to know if its bad. there was no noises or anything this time so im wondering if its also common for blower motors to just go out and not work at all? do they always make the screeching noise when they're bad?

Originally Posted by bnaylor3400

The best thing to do is remove the blower and bench test it by jumping 12 v directly to it. If it works you can rule out the blower. If not you probably have another bad blower.

Since you have a GTP, I am assuming you have a dual digital climate control system. If the blower works, the next item to look at would be the blower motor control module.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by cowboyili

thanks for your reply. one question - the last time my blower motor went out it made a really loud screeching noise which i guess is a sure fire way to know if its bad. there was no noises or anything this time so im wondering if its also common for blower motors to just go out and not work at all? do they always make the screeching noise when they're bad?

It depends but not all blowers give you an audio indication like squeeling, etc. when they go bad. As to frequency of failure, it depends on what brand replacement was installed. A lot of people have bad luck with the aftermarket ones like sold at Autozone.

Another way to possibly extend blower life is to make sure the fan speed control is not in med-high speeds when car is started. Also, check for a cabin air filter. If you do not have one consider putting one in because it will keep dirt and debris out of the HVAC cowling intake.

[cowboyili]

yeah i was always curious as to why there was no cabin air filter. do you know what kind would fit a 98 grand prix gtp?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by cowboyili

yeah i was always curious as to why there was no cabin air filter. do you know what kind would fit a 98 grand prix gtp?

Cabin filter from '97 - '04 Buick Regal fits perfectly.

BTW - You can get AC Delco, Fram, Purolator brands. Autozone has a generic one that I use for around $10.00.

[cowboyili]

thanks! you've been such a huge help.