Neon Heater Fan Dies with Check Engine Light Alert

I faced a similar blower motor failure on my 2006 Chrysler Sebring with the 2.4L engine. The symptoms matched exactly, complete loss of air flow and a check engine light. The root cause was a failed blower motor resistor combined with a worn-out blower motor. When the resistor fails, it often takes the motor with it, as the fan speed controller cant properly regulate power to the system. My climate control system showed no signs of life, just like yours. The mechanic found that extended use with a failing resistor had caused excess heat buildup, damaging both components. This is actually a common failure point on Chrysler models from that era. The repair involved replacing both the blower motor assembly and the resistor pack. While labor-intensive since they needed to access the climate control system behind the dashboard, it was not a complicated technical fix. The repair resolved both the air conditioning issue and the check engine light. This type of failure typically indicates postponed maintenance rather than a serious mechanical problem. However, driving without proper cabin air circulation can lead to safety issues from window fogging and poor ventilation.

Thanks for sharing your Sebring experience. Your symptoms sound identical to what I dealt with on my Neon. Good point about the blower motor resistor, that seems to be a recurring weakness in these cars. The electrical wiring and climate control issues on these models can definitely turn expensive. I am still debating whether to proceed with the full repair. Before I decide, could you share what the total repair cost was in your case? Also, has your heater fan and air flow system worked properly since the fix, or have you noticed any other climate control problems? The mechanic mentioned something about possible dashboard removal being needed to access the full air circulation system, which worried me about labor costs.

Good news, I went ahead with the repair on my Sebring and can confirm it completely resolved the HVAC system issues. The total repair came to 365€, which included replacing both the blower motor and resistor pack. Though initially hesitant about the cost, having reliable cabin air flow again made it worthwhile. The electrical wiring and climate control have worked flawlessly since the fix, no more issues with the cabin fan or any other climate-related problems. The repair involved some dashboard disassembly to access the blower motor components, but a skilled mechanic can handle this efficiently. For comparison, your Neon should actually be a bit more straightforward to work on than my Sebring was. The important thing is getting both components replaced together, since a worn resistor can damage a new blower motor if not addressed. If your symptoms match what I experienced, I would recommend proceeding with the repair. Proper ventilation and defrosting capabilities are essential for safe driving, especially during weather changes.

I finally decided to get the repair done. The symptoms were too similar to ignore, and driving without proper air circulation was becoming a safety concern. Took it to the shop yesterday and they confirmed exactly what you described, both the blower motor and resistor needed replacement. The total came to 320€, a bit less than your Sebring repair since the Neon layout made access slightly easier. The heater fan started working perfectly right after the fix. Having proper climate control again is such a relief. The check engine light cleared up too, and the electrical wiring looks much better than the old corroded setup they removed. Really glad I went ahead with the complete repair rather than trying cheaper partial fixes. The air conditioning and ventilation work like new now. Thanks for helping me make an informed decision about this repair.