Ford Mustang models have a ticking blower issue. The noise comes from the heater fan. Something is out of balance or interfering with the fan blades. It’s annoying. Some owners fix it themselves. Mechanics can also repair it.
Problem Explanation
The ticking noise emanating from the heater blower when the fan is switched on is a common issue plaguing certain Ford Mustang models.
This annoying sound is often caused by an imbalance in the blower fan blades which leads to the assembly vibrating against the blower housing. Other potential culprits include blower motor wear, obstructions scraping against fan blades, broken motor mounts, and loose housing screws. Determining the root cause requires a methodical diagnosis.
Diagnostic Procedures
Tools/Equipment Needed: screwdrivers, sockets, flashlight, protective gloves
Diagnostic Steps:
- Locate and access blower motor assembly
- Visually inspect blades for damage/cracks/imbalance
- Check blades spin freely without obstruction
- Inspect motor shaft and mounts for wear/play
- Check housing screws are all tight
- Remove assembly and check for debris inside housing
- With fan power on, recreate noise and detect source
- Eliminate accessory belt noise by removing belt
Thoroughly following these inspection steps will systematically narrow down the ticking culprit. Patience is key, along with safe practices.
Repair Solutions
Once the problematic component causing the irksome ticking is identified via methodical diagnosis, suitable repairs can be made including:
- Rebalancing or replacing damaged blower fan blades
- Cleaning out obstructions rubbing against blades
- Replacing worn blower motor mounts
- Tightening loose housing screws/components
- Correcting alignment issues in fan assembly
Depending on extent of repairs needed, costs range from $50 for minor fixes up to $500 for full blower unit replacement. Properly restoring balance and structural integrity in the fan assembly will permanently cure the frustrating ticking racket.
Ford Mustang Model Years Potentially Impacted
The model years reportedly susceptible to developing blower fan ticking issues span from 2005 to 2014 covering the fourth, fifth and sixth generation Mustangs.
Vehicle Components Potentially Affected
Faulty parts inducing the annoying sound predominantly center around the blower motor fan assembly including:
- Blower fan blades
- Blower motor mounts
- Blower housing/screws
- Wiring connectors
Cost of repairing this issue
As outlined above, minor fixes like tightening loose screws or cleaning fan blades could cost as little as $50. Replacing worn motor mounts would run around $200. And fully replacing the blower fan assembly due to irreparable imbalance or damage would cost approximately $500 including labor.
John Smith, a Los Angeles-based car specialist and automotive writer, boasts over 20 years in the industry. With a background as a master technician and a decade-long writing stint at notable automotive publications, John now shares his expansive knowledge on CarFinite, simplifying car maintenance for readers.