Need to Replace Blower Motor ASAP!!!!!
 

Does anyone know of a good set of instructions to replace the blower motor? I have a 2005 e53 3.0i and haven't ordered the Bentley manual yet but want to replace the blower motor starting today and tomorrow. My only concern is the torque needed to re-install the dash and working around the airbag.

I did have the blower motor and FSR tested at the dealership and the blower motor was bad ($1,800:wow:).

You have to rip everything in the dash out, starting with the center console, its DIY'able but its a ton of work.

It's covered in the Bentley and here http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...wer-motor.html

There are no torque specs for interior trim such as the dash.

I suggest waiting until you get the Bentley (can be shipped overnight for MUCH less $s then the damage caused by ripping into without direction).

Not difficult DIY, just a bunch of simple remove/replace labor (with basic tools).

Great DIY job, the part costs 1/10th the labor hr charge.

Don't believe the dealer, they want to rip you off.
In 99% of the time, it is the FSR (happened to my E39 1998 528i).

Get a new FSR from dealer ($90) and stick it in there.
Or get a good used OEM FSR on ebay for $20 and stick it in there.
Or junk yard FSR.

If you want to troubleshoot the FSR circuit, I posted info for E39 below:

DIY: Trouble-shooting HVAC Blower Motor and FSR - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

Okay. Sounds like I need to wait on the Bentley manual. The instructions in the links I have found appear to skip some steps that will only lead to more frustration.

I did replace the FRS but should probably perform the jumper wire check just to be sure.

I am a little shocked that my blower motor just stopped without sounding funny or acting erratically. Changing the cabin filter and poking the Blower with a stick might also be worth a try.:stickpoke

- Yes, see the link for info to short the pins to supply 12V to the blower motor.
Basically a jumper wire (with inline fuse holder) to jump #2 and #5 terminals on the FSR connector.
If the fuse blows, then the blower motor is shorted out.
If the blower runs, then you are back to FSR and/or fuse controlling the blower.

- A common cause is lack of lubrication. The blower motor shaft runs on some bushings (no ball bearings). Over time, the oil dries out creating drag and seizing.

- Some info on Blower Motor DIY:

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ement-diy.html

Below is info on E39, should be very similar for E53:

http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/sh...eplacement-DIY