the ac in my 2003 dakota only working if I select the highest (4th) setting. The three lower settings not working...they all went out at the same time. Any ideas what I'm looking at.....part, cost, estimated shop repair?

 

Check the resistor that controls voltage to your blower motor.

 

It's easy to replace yourself and the part is/was under $20. You have to stand on your head on the passenger side floorboard and look up to see it.

 

Thank you for replying. I'm not at all sure what I'm looking at so I called pep boys. They want 21.99 for the part and the rest labor for a total of $183.00. They tell me they need 1.5 hrs labor to take the dash apart and replace. Does that sound reasonable or are they smoking me?

 

I only paid $8 for the blower resistor through the dodge dealer, and it took maybe 20 minutes to change it out. Have you disconnected the resistor yet? If not, you may want to, to make sure the plug isnt melted as welll, which was the case with mine, and the plug cost another $15 through a junk yard. The plug through the dealer is about $85. Also, if your resistor has went out, the blower motor will be next on your list to replace.

 

Cowboy, thanks for feedback. I did find a resistor for $12 at the local dealer and installed it. I'm cool again. Hopefully the blower motor won't go until cooler weather. Not being much of a mechanic I called pep boys for a quote to intall the resistor and was quoted $183. Mostly labor, they said, as they would have to dismantle the dash to get to it. What a crock. As you said, it took even me no more than 15-20 minutes to remove and install. Two screws and without touching the dashboard. Oughta be a law. Thanks again.