How to replace e46 blower motor

[dolceboy]

Hello all, I am hoping someone can clue me in as to how to replace the blower motor on a 2000 323? I fould plenty on the e30 and e36, but nothing on e46. Any info would be great! THANKS

[DTU]

I had this noise coming from mine so I can tell you how to get to it but not sure how to replace it. I couldn't get it to move since there were the clips holding it. I just oiled the motor and the noise stopped. You need to open the hood. Remove the microfilter and the housing. Once the housing is removed you will see a a "heat shield" that runs behind the engine. You need to remove that one to get to the blower motor. It takes a bit of turning and twising but you should be able to get it out. Once you have removed that you should see the motor. Not sure what to do after that.

[nospam]

I have developed the "chirping" noise at low fan speeds (climate control works normally other than the noise). I'd like to oil the motor. What oil should be used? Is WD-40 fine?

[bmwill831]

I have developed the "chirping" noise at low fan speeds (climate control works normally other than the noise). I'd like to oil the motor. What oil should be used? Is WD-40 fine?

NO NO NO NO NO

actually just try to ignore the chirp, they all do it at low speeds, its normal for model

[BadBoostedBmwM3]

I have developed the "chirping" noise at low fan speeds (climate control works normally other than the noise). I'd like to oil the motor. What oil should be used? Is WD-40 fine?

Don't oil anything.... Good Job on searching BTW.

And, mine chirps to, BUT I've notice if i leave it on full auto mode it doesn't chirp at all. Im so happy now!!

[sockethead]

Once you have the cabin filter housing and other bulkheads out of there, you'll see the blower motor housing. There is a flap on the right side. open the flap. There is a little leaver at the bottom. Pull it up and lift the flap out. There are three clips that hold the housing cover in. One in the top center and two on the bottom. Pry them off and lift the cover off. The blower itself is baiscally two hamster wheels. There are three screws that hold it in. One in the top center and two on the right, top and bottom. Disconnect the wiring harness in the top center and pull off the metal retaining strap in the center. Then pull the motor out.

[nathancarter]

You can attempt to lubricate it with graphite or lithium grease, but that's probably only going to be a temporary fix.

[Sixracer]

Good DIY here:
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=418987

Flip through all the pages to see all the pics.

[digivation]

Light motor oil lasted about 7-9 months. It's a PITA to get out though. I think I'll try the graphite or lithium grease next time around and see how that goes. After that... might be time for a new blower

Oh and the procedure in the Bentley manual is exactly what you need. You don't have one? Do not pass go, do not collect $200. Do go online and buy one. Best $80 investment.

[DavidF]

If you replace the blower motor, use this part number: 64-11-3-453-729. Trust me.

[sockethead]

Light motor oil lasted about 7-9 months. It's a PITA to get out though. I think I'll try the graphite or lithium grease next time around and see how that goes. After that... might be time for a new blower

Oh and the procedure in the Bentley manual is exactly what you need. You don't have one? Do not pass go, do not collect $200. Do go online and buy one. Best $80 investment.

My instructions above are almost verbatim from the Bentley manual

If you replace the blower motor, use this part number: 64-11-3-453-729. Trust me.

You're the one that discovered that the Z3 blower is identical and like, half the price?

[DavidF]

Yep, more like 1/4 the price (list price that is....)

[bladestall]

If you replace the blower motor, use this part number: 64-11-3-453-729. Trust me.

David, you the man!! Picked one up for $65 bucks at FCP Euro!! A pain in the nut to change but works like a charm!

[318bud]

my motor is working intermittently. like every once in a while it will sound like its just blowing bursts of air. and than i just put on full speed and it goes away

is the motor going bad?

[TexFinn]

my motor is working intermittently. like every once in a while it will sound like its just blowing bursts of air. and than i just put on full speed and it goes away

is the motor going bad?

Final stage resistor going bad. DIY is out there, just search.