How to maintain the ventilation system in your car

1. Check the air filter in the car cabin

The cabin air filter is designed to filter the air from the ducts that enter the cabin. This air filter is made of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) or paper, and is usually located under the passenger side dashboard or under the hood. When this air filter becomes clogged with dirt, it slows or stops the flow of air into the vehicle.

Please remove this air filter, check and clean it regularly to avoid clogging the air filter.

2. Check the air control regulator

The vehicle's air control regulator is equipped with a control door located at the vent outlet, and has a knob to open and close the vent.

To check the maintenance of this regulator, start the car and let it idle, turn on the heater and air conditioner, move the steering wheel slightly and see how much air is in the car. Turn the control knob to see if this regulator is still working or faulty.

3. Check the fan motor

If the fan motor starts shorted (one of the three poles on the moving part is shorted) it will cause the motor to run at 2/3 speed and not push as much air as normal.

To check, you need an ammeter connected to the motor's lead wires. If the ammeter shows between 9 -15A, it means the motor is working properly. If it is below 9A, it means the fan motor is short-circuited and not working properly.

4. Check the air inlet restrictor

There are two air intake ports. One is used when the system is in fresh air mode. When the system is in fresh air mode, it brings air from outside into the vehicle. When the system is in recirculation mode, air is only circulated inside the vehicle.

If the air intakes are blocked by a piece of paper, cloth, or similar object, it will slow or stop the air supply. Check both the inside and outside air intakes. These are usually located near the windshield (outer doors) and next to the front passenger seat (inner doors).