Squealing Blower Motor
 

02 x5 4.4
My blower motor has been squealing for a few winters when its real cold..I plan to replace it when its warmer out, but it doesn't make noise when it's warm :)
so I blow it off.

I don't find any threads with pics or directions..anyone know of any?

Instructions: Remove dash.

Here's a pic.

http://i48.tinypic.com/35lrgy1.jpg

Do the sampler fan clean/lube first.

Most have found the squeak noise was NOT the blower fan after this simple/quick job.

Do you have a link to that fix TiAgX5? Mine was squeaking a little last time it really dropped cold. I did a search but couldn't see it.

Many thanks.

Is the "squeal" coming from deep inside the dash...or is it a not so loud sound coming from the IHKA control panel? Can you hear it after you've turned the car off and put your ear up to the IHKA?

Key search phrase words are: "BMW IHKA sampler fan".

You may also want to search for how to remove the IHKA from the dash...its the same procedure for the e39 as well as the e53...find any DIY for these models and your good. Once the IHKA control unit is out...then it's just inserting something into the clasps that hold the panels together.

Once you open the IHKA...you will see the circuit board and the small sampling fan sitting on its magnetic spindle. Clean the dust and perhaps a few drops of oil.

Thanks very much. Another job added to the ever growing list!

Here's an IHKA removal DYI: DIY: HVAC Sampling Fan Check (a 15 min project!) - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

Thanks Qsilver7.

I think it was your DIY I used a few years ago, was about to dive into the fan blower DIY, saw your sampler fan DIY, did it and it's all good to date.

While the complete tear down of the dash AND its framing is a bit extreme, it is, in principle, what needs to be done to access the main blower motor. Bentley's manual does a great job providing a general outline of the procedure to access the blower motor. Also, depending on the year of your X5, removal may be slightly different than described here. This video provides an overview of the broader steps and caveats of the dash and center console removal. The minute details require removal of a significant number of screws, steering wheel, fascia panels, kick panel lighting, wires, airbags, center console, etc.

Be sure to test the function of the new fan motor (if you go this route) on an external battery. Turning your X5 on without airbags connected throws the airbag fault. This can be cleared with an appropriate code reader if you own one; otherwise, you need to take it to a shop. After mounting the fan, spin it by hand to make sure the fins are not rubbing the housing--you only want to disassemble the dash ONCE.

Here's hoping it's the sample fan--i.e, the relatively easier fix.

Thanks again guys. I also came across a write up on how to repair my cracked temp buttons so a double win!