Hi everyone,

I'm hoping someone can give me some ideas here.

I have a 2001 Saturn SL1 which seems to have very low air pressure from the both the AC and heater fan. I am not sure how powerful the fan should be but it is noticeably lower than my 2000 LS2. Also, I'm in Wisconsin and it takes about 20 minutes for it blow warm air (and never hot air) in the Winter.

Are there air filters to check/clean or is there something else I can check myself?

Thanks for any ideas!

-Stephen

 

I lived in Madison for 7 years in the 90's -- with a 92 SL2 and a 97 SC2. They were never quick to heat up in the winter. I found that either the floor or windshield positions were the strongest (flow wise) for heat (makes sense in winter anyway), and the mid vents for A/C.

Recirc helps significantly (as long as it's not raining)

Do you hear any crap buzzing around when the fan is blowing? Sometimes leaves n stuff get pulled in there and restrict the air flow.....

 

Hi Derf,
Thanks for your reply. I don't really recall how strong the air blew when we first bought the car a few years ago so it could be that it's the same as it's always been but have just noticed it more as others have mentioned how long it takes to heat up compared to their vehicles.
As far as debris, I don't hear anything flying around so I can't say for sure that there is something clogged. If there was a clog where would it be and how easy would it be to just double-check that it is clean?
Again it may be nothing but I would like to know instead of just living with it. I hate overlooking something just because I think there's no other choice only to find out it was a quick fix!
Thanks,
-Stephen

 

there are vent outputs near the base of the center console -- put the blower on high and listen for things (usually leaves or a paper sound) whippin around in the venting