HEATER PROBLEMS

(projects by John Turvill)

SYMPTOMS AND SOLUTIONS

This is a summary of the work involved to solve the problem of the heater fan working only on setting 4.

The first stage for me was to install a new fan switch. This turned out to be a waste of time, as the problem remained.

However, I'm including the operation anyway! Second job was to install a new heater resistor, which cured the problem.

 

Installing a new fan switch
PARTS TOOLS

Parts: Fiat Switch Part No. 46721486 current price UK £5.73 +VAT

Tools: Phillips Screwdriver, Allen Key

STEP
ACTION
1
 Remove radio and fixing plate
2
 Remove ashtray inner section to expose screw, remove this screw
3
 Remove gearstick glove (pulls up and out) and remove 4 screws exposed at corners
4
 Lift lower console up and over gearstick, leaving cables connected
5
 Remove 3 control knobs
6
 Remove upper centre console by withdrawing phillips/allen screws
7
 Remove 4 screws retaining the heater assembly, and carefully invert this section inside the aperture, until you can get at the back of the fan switch.
8
 Using a small allen key, remove the two screws, and withdraw switch
9
 Fit new switch and reassemble in reverse

 

Installing a new heater resistor ( this operation was advised by a local car electric company and did the trick!)
PARTS TOOLS

Parts: Fiat Resistor Part No. 46721213 current price UK £10.89 +VAT

Tools: Phillips Screwdriver, good small torch

STEP
ACTION
1
 Lie on back in footwell with door open (push seat back as far as it will go)
2
 Locate the resistor unit ( this is at the back of the fan assembly above passenger footwell. It is just possible to remove and replace this without removing the carpet, but you'll need small fingers and some patience!)
3
 Remove the connector from the socket
4
 Pressing down the surrounding carpet, (perhaps wedge it with the torch) and using a small angled phillips screwdriver or ratchet, remove the two screws holding the resistor in place
5
 Pull the old unit out, instal new and refit the connector
Sounds easy but space is limited and screws can drop down behind the carpet!