Here's a breakdown of likely causes and what to investigate:
* Blower Motor: This is the most probable culprit. The blower motor is responsible for pushing air through the system. If it's failing, weak, or completely dead, you'll have little to no airflow. The motor itself might be worn out, the resistor (which controls fan speeds) could be faulty, or there might be a problem with the wiring or fuses.
* Blower Motor Resistor: This is a common failure point. It regulates the fan speed. A faulty resistor can lead to no airflow or only one speed working.
* Cabin Air Filter: A severely clogged cabin air filter can restrict airflow, but it's unlikely to cause *no* airflow. It's still important to check and replace it if necessary as part of troubleshooting. The filter is relatively easy to access and replace yourself.
* HVAC Blower Motor Switch: The switch that controls the fan speed could be malfunctioning, preventing the blower motor from activating.
* Ducts and Vents: While less likely to cause *no* airflow, clogged or restricted air ducts could be contributing to the reduced airflow. This is more likely to manifest as uneven airflow, rather than a complete lack of it. However, the accumulated lint suggests potential duct issues.
* Electrical Issues: A blown fuse or a problem with the wiring to the blower motor could also prevent it from working.
What to do:
1. Check the fuses: Consult your owner's manual to locate and check the fuses related to the HVAC system.
2. Replace the cabin air filter: This is a cheap and easy fix that should be done regularly anyway. See your owner's manual for its location. Even if it doesn't solve the problem entirely, it'll help.
3. Inspect the blower motor resistor: Accessing this may require some disassembly depending on your Rendezvous model. A visual inspection may reveal a burned-out component. Replacement is relatively straightforward but may require some mechanical skill.
4. Check the blower motor: This is the most challenging step and may require professional help. Accessing the blower motor usually requires removing parts of the dashboard or other components. A mechanic can diagnose if the motor itself is faulty or if there's a problem with its wiring or power supply.
5. Professional Diagnosis: If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, take your Rendezvous to a qualified mechanic or auto repair shop. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately and perform the necessary repairs. The lint buildup may also indicate the need for a thorough cleaning of the HVAC system to remove accumulated debris.
The heavy lint strongly suggests that the poor airflow has been ongoing for a while, allowing dust to accumulate. Addressing the airflow issue is the priority, and then cleaning the system will improve the cabin air quality.
