Squealing heater (yet another heater issue...)

[charisboof]

This forum is amazing! Thanks, everyone, for the great help in regards to figuring how to fix things on a Vibe.

I've done some searching and can't find my exact problem. I'm thinking it's the blower fan, but would appreciate any input.

I have a beloved 2003 Vibe. The heater works fine, it just makes noises on the two highest/fastest settings (the loudest. Not much heat comes out on the lowest setting, and the 2nd setting works fine. On the third setting it squeals, on the fourth (highest) setting it buzzes like something is vibrating really fast. Oh, and switching to recirc doesn't make any difference in the noises.

I'd appreciate some help. Any thoughts, oh wise community?

[JohnO]

I'd take the blower out and check to see if anything has fallen into it. The location makes it vulnerable to stuff falling in, especially when servicing the cabin filter.

[trb]

Certainly check the fan. A couple of bolts to remove the computer below the glove box, then 3 bolts hold the fan motor in place. If it needs replacement, i got one for my son's car on ebay for about $40. Good luck!

[charisboof]

Oooh, something can fall inside the blower? That's a real possibility with the strange noises. I'll read up on how to remove it and check it out. Thanks a ton! (that's why this forum is awesome!)

[Rayven01]

It's especially easy to get something in there while changing the climate filter.

[charisboof]

The climate filter has never been changed (assuming that is the one directly above the blower fan). It needs to be replaced I'm sure...

[Rayven01]

Original climate filter on a 2003? Woah... Pictures!!!

[charisboof]

I wish I could "like" comments on here

Addendum: I've ordered a new cabin filter, so I'm for sure going to be trying my hand at removing the guts from behind the glove. Oh, for adventuring spirits...

[charisboof]

Well, the advice was given several years ago, but yesterday I FINALLY replaced the cabin air filter. And y'all, the heater is fixed. I can't believe how easy this was! I found a video on Youtube, and 10 minutes later the dang thing was fixed entirely. No squealing noises, the low setting works perfectly. I'm a happy person. Why did it take me so long to try!? Thanks for the help!

As promised, a photo...

https://www.flickr.com/photos/49327159@ ... res/vrsNw3

[Derf]

Now that is impressive.