2020-2024 Ram 3500 HVAC Blower Motor: A Guide for Replacement
No air coming from your vents? This guide covers the common symptoms, replacement costs, and part choices for your Ram 3500.
- A failing blower motor often starts intermittently before it stops working completely.
- Replacement is a very easy DIY job that takes less than an hour with basic tools.
- If the fan only works on the highest speed, the problem is the blower motor resistor, not the motor.
- Check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to ensure your symptoms don't match another known issue.
Symptoms of a Failing Blower Motor
When a blower motor starts to fail, the signs are usually obvious. The failure can be sudden, but it often starts with intermittent problems.
- No Air From Vents: The most common symptom is a complete lack of airflow from the vents, even when you turn the fan speed to high.
- Weak Airflow: Before it fails completely, a worn-out motor might spin slower than normal, leading to noticeably weaker airflow than you're used to.
- Unusual Noises: Squealing, rattling, or a ticking sound coming from the passenger footwell area is a classic sign of a bad motor. This can be caused by worn-out bearings or debris like leaves getting sucked into the fan cage. 🎬 See how to diagnose and fix a noisy blower motor.
- Works Intermittently: The blower motor may cut in and out while you're driving. A common diagnostic trick is to give the blower motor housing under the passenger dash a firm smack; if the fan kicks on, the motor is failing and needs to be replaced.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For the 2020-2024 Ram 3500, you have a choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket blower motors. OEM parts are what the factory installed, while aftermarket parts are made by other companies.
| Brand Tier | Our Available Brands | General Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| OEM (Mopar) | N/A | OEM parts guarantee a perfect fit and original performance. However, they are the most expensive option. For a part this easy to replace, many owners find the extra cost unnecessary. |
| Premium Aftermarket | Four Seasons, Global Parts | These brands specialize in automotive climate control systems. Four Seasons is a well-known brand owned by Standard Motor Products. Reviews are often mixed; some find them to be a reliable, cost-effective alternative, while others have reported noise issues. Aftermarket parts are significantly more affordable than OEM and are a practical choice, especially for a simple DIY job like this one. |
A Note on Other HVAC Issues
Sometimes, what seems like a bad blower motor is actually a different problem. If your fan only works on the highest speed, the issue is likely the blower motor resistor, not the motor itself. Also, be aware of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that may apply to your truck, as described in the FAQ below.
Cost to Replace a 2020-2024 Ram 3500 Blower Motor
The cost is relatively low, especially if you do the work yourself. The part is easy to access, making labor costs at a shop minimal.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $244.61 - $247.37 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Part | $300 - $450 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $320 - $600 |
Pro Tip: A Simple DIY Job
Replacing the blower motor on this generation of Ram 3500 is one of the easiest repairs you can do. It's held in by just three screws and is easily reached under the passenger-side dashboard. Most owners with basic hand tools can complete this job in under an hour 🎬 Watch this step-by-step walkthrough of the blower motor replacement. and save on labor costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace the blower motor on a Ram 3500?
No, it is considered a very easy job. The motor is located under the passenger dashboard, held in by three screws (usually 8mm or T25 Torx) and an electrical plug. You may need to remove a soft felt panel for access. The entire job can typically be done in 30-60 minutes.
My fan only works on high. Is the blower motor bad?
No, this is a classic symptom of a failed blower motor resistor (or resistor module). The resistor controls the fan speed, and when it fails, power can only get to the motor on the highest setting, which bypasses the resistor. 🎬 Learn how to replace a failed blower motor resistor. This is a separate, and also inexpensive, part to replace.
Are there any recalls for the blower motor on my truck?
As of early 2026, there are no active safety recalls for the HVAC blower motor specifically on the 2020-2024 Ram 3500. Searches show recalls for much older models or for different parts on the new trucks.
Are there any known issues or TSBs I should know about?
Yes, there are a few. TSB 24-001-22 was issued for 2019-2021 trucks where the blower motor shuts down when using a snow plow with the defrost on high. TSB 08-101-20 affects a small number of 2020 trucks (built Aug 18-21, 2020) where the entire HVAC control unit can fail. Finally, TSB 24-001-20 addresses poor A/C cooling performance on some 2019-2020 models due to the HVAC housing design, not the motor.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68048905AB 68048905AA 68214892AD 68214892AC 68214892AB 68214892AA
The blower motor is a 12V DC motor that includes a plastic 'squirrel cage' fan. It is located in the passenger footwell, under the dashboard.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ram 3500: