Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Socket set (metric)
* Ratchet and extensions
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and possibly flathead)
* Pliers
* Possibly a trim removal tool (to avoid scratching the plastic)
* A shop vacuum or compressed air
* New blower motor (ensure you get the correct one for your model)
General Steps (This is not exhaustive, consult your repair manual):
1. Disconnect the Battery: This is crucial to prevent electrical shorts and injury. Disconnect the negative terminal first.
2. Access the Blower Motor: This typically involves removing parts of the dashboard or accessing it from under the dashboard. This is the most labor-intensive part. Your repair manual will guide you through this, potentially involving:
* Removing the glove box.
* Removing trim panels around the radio and HVAC controls.
* Possibly removing the steering column shroud (partially or completely).
* Removing parts of the dashboard itself (often requiring careful removal of fasteners and plastic clips).
3. Disconnect Electrical Connections: Once you have access to the blower motor, carefully disconnect the electrical connectors. Take pictures or make notes to ensure you reconnect them correctly.
4. Remove the Blower Motor: The blower motor is usually held in place by screws or bolts. These are often difficult to reach. You might need extensions and a flexible magnetic pick-up tool to retrieve dropped screws.
5. Install the New Blower Motor: Carefully install the new blower motor, ensuring it's seated correctly and all screws/bolts are tightened appropriately. Replace any damaged or worn parts such as the blower motor resistor (a common failure point).
6. Reconnect Electrical Connections: Carefully reconnect the electrical connectors, making sure they are securely seated.
7. Reassemble Everything: Reverse the steps you took to disassemble the dashboard. Take your time and ensure all parts are correctly reassembled. Pay attention to the plastic clips, as broken clips can lead to rattling and noise.
8. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the positive terminal of the battery.
9. Test the Blower Motor: Turn on your AC/heater and test all blower speeds to ensure the new motor is working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual is absolutely essential. Generic instructions are insufficient; the specific steps for your 1998 Saturn SL2 are critical to avoid damage.
* Patience: This is not a quick job. Allow ample time and don't rush the process.
* Photos and Notes: Take plenty of pictures during disassembly to aid in reassembly. Make detailed notes if necessary.
* Clips and Fasteners: Be very careful with plastic clips and fasteners; they are often fragile and easily broken.
* Resistor: Check the blower motor resistor while you're in there; it's a common point of failure and often relatively inexpensive to replace.
If you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly replacing the blower motor can lead to further damage or even injury.
