Why is 2001 dodge Dakota blower motor not working and has 12 volts both sides of the connector?

Having 12 volts on both sides of the blower motor connector on your 2001 Dodge Dakota, while seemingly indicating power, actually points to a short circuit. The blower motor itself is likely the problem, but it could also be a wiring issue before the motor. Here's why:

* Short Circuit: The voltage reading indicates a direct connection between the power and ground wires, bypassing the blower motor's resistance. This is why the fuse isn't blowing; the current is finding an easy path to ground. The short could be *within* the blower motor itself (the most likely culprit), or in the wiring harness leading to it.

Here's a breakdown of troubleshooting steps:

1. Disconnect the blower motor connector completely: This is crucial for safety. With the connector disconnected, you should have 12 volts on one side and 0 volts on the other when the switch is on. If you still have 12 volts on both sides, the short is in the wiring before the motor.

2. Check the blower motor resistor (if applicable): Many vehicles, including some Dakotas, use a resistor pack to control fan speeds. A faulty resistor can cause a short circuit. Locate this (usually near the blower motor) and inspect it for burn marks or damage. Disconnect it to test if that resolves the short.

3. Inspect the blower motor wiring: Carefully examine the wiring harness from the connector to the blower motor. Look for chafing, fraying, or any signs of a short to ground.

4. Test the blower motor itself: With the connector disconnected, you can test the blower motor's resistance using a multimeter. If the resistance is very low (near zero), the motor is shorted internally. If infinite or open, it's likely completely failed.

5. Check the blower motor switch: While less likely given your voltage reading, a faulty blower motor switch could potentially cause a constant short, but the symptom would often be different.

6. Ground issues (less likely): While less probable with your description, a poor ground connection somewhere in the circuit *could* manifest similarly.

In summary: The most likely cause is a faulty blower motor itself. Testing it and the wiring harness for shorts is the next step. If you're not comfortable working with car electrical systems, it's best to take your Dakota to a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the problem. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge can lead to further damage or injury.