Here's how to locate, test, and replace it:
1. Locating the Resistor:
* Remove the Glove Box: This usually involves releasing clips or screws holding it in place. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. Once removed, you should see a small, usually black, rectangular unit with several wires attached. This is likely the blower motor resistor. It's often mounted to the HVAC housing.
* Alternative Location (Less Common): In some rare cases, it might be located elsewhere in the HVAC system, but behind the glove box is the most common spot. If you can't find it there, you might need a wiring diagram specific to your year and model S10.
2. Testing the Resistor:
Testing requires a multimeter set to ohms (Ω).
* Disconnect the wires: Carefully unplug the electrical connector from the resistor.
* Check for continuity: The resistor is essentially a variable resistor, so different resistance values are expected between different terminals. A simple continuity test will only tell you if the resistor is completely open (infinite resistance, no continuity) or shorted (0 ohms resistance). A completely open resistor is bad.
* Resistance testing (more advanced): A more thorough test involves checking the resistance between different terminals of the resistor. Each terminal corresponds to a different blower speed. You'll need a wiring diagram for your specific S10 to know which terminals to check and what resistance values to expect for each speed setting. If you find significantly lower or higher resistance than expected across any given pair of terminals, the resistor is likely faulty. If you don't have a wiring diagram this test is tricky, so proceed with caution and verify against a reliable diagram.
3. Replacing the Resistor:
* Disconnect the wiring harness: Carefully disconnect the connector from the faulty resistor.
* Remove the old resistor: This might involve unbolting or unclipping it depending on how it's secured.
* Install the new resistor: Carefully position the new resistor in its original location and secure it.
* Reconnect the wiring harness: Make sure the connector is securely plugged in.
* Reinstall the glove box: Reassemble the glove box ensuring all clips and screws are properly engaged.
Important Considerations:
* Wiring Diagram: A wiring diagram specific to your 2002 Chevy S10 is highly recommended for accurate testing and identification. You can often find these diagrams online through repair manuals, automotive forums, or websites specializing in automotive repair information.
* Safety: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work to prevent electrical shocks.
* Parts: Purchase a replacement blower motor resistor that is specifically designed for your 2002 Chevy S10. Getting the incorrect part can lead to further problems.
If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your S10 to a qualified mechanic. Improperly replacing the resistor could cause further damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
