How do I know if my resistor is bad?

Author: Matilda Pollich III  |  Last update: Monday, February 16, 2026

If the resistor is fine, the multimeter will show its value in Ω, kΩ, or MΩ. However, if the resistor is bad or damaged, the multimeter may display 0 or 1. If the value 0 is displayed, the resistor is damaged, and the current can't pass through.

How to tell if a resistor will burn out?

When a resistor has been overloaded with voltage exceeding its power rating, the resistor will become very hot to touch and darken considerably.

How do I know if it's the blower motor or the resistor?

Blower Motor Resistor Test

Typically, if the fan will work on some speeds but not on others, the resistor is suspect. Okay, let's say there's no melting going on, but your fan doesn't work on all speeds. Typically, if the fan will work on some speeds but not on others, the resistor is suspect.

Will a blower motor work without the resistor?

The blower motor can indeed function without the resistor. As we know, the resistor is responsible for controlling the blower motor's speed by regulating the voltage supplied to it. It will turn out that without the resistor, the blower motor may run at maximum speed or not function as expected.

How do I know if my cooling fan resistor is bad?

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Cooling Fan Resistor?
  1. Cooling fan never stops running even with the ignition off.
  2. Cooling fan never kicks in and engine temperature increases abnormally.

How to test and replace your blower motor resistor

What happens when a resistor fails?

If the overload condition continues, the resistor will deteriorate and burn out, and the resistance value will increase.

How to check resistor without multimeter?

Use a Voltmeter and an ammeter to measure a current flow in a series connection, using Ohms law Current = Voltage / Resistance So Resistance = Voltage / current in amps with the Voltage Divided By Amps will give you the resistance in value in OHMS.

How do you know if a resistor is shorted?

An element (e.g., resistor, voltage source, etc.) is shorted if both of its ends are connected to the same one node. Short circuits are represented as a wire. A wire is considered to have a negligible amount of voltage, or zero volts, meaning the voltage is zero for a short circuit.

Can you test a resistor without removing it?

If you suspect a bad resistor is at the root of your electrical problems, you can conduct a simple test with a multimeter without ever removing the resistor from the circuit.

What is a bad resistance reading?

Open or short circuits: High or infinite resistance indicates an open circuit, while very low or zero resistance indicates a short circuit. Failed components: Components such as resistors have known resistance, and testing their resistance can indicate if they are faulty.

Where do you start reading a resistor?

Always read resistors from left to right. Resistors never start with a metallic band on the left. If you have a resistor with a gold or silver band on one end, you have a 5% or 10% tolerance resistor. Position the resistor with this band on the right side and again read your resistor from left to right.

How do I test a resistor?

Set the Ohmmeter: Set it to the resistance (Ω) mode. If you're not sure about the resistor's value, set the Ohmmeter to a higher resistance range. Connect the Ohmmeter: Connect the Ohmmeter to both ends of the resistor. Read the Resistance: The Ohmmeter should display the resistance value.

What is the most common resistor trouble?

They fail most commonly in the open circuit mode, and the failure is usually caused by wear of the wiper arm mechanism. Resistance drift and excess noise can also be a problem as the wiper arm ages. The short circuit failure mode is again unlikely for variable resistors.

How much does it cost to fix a resistor?

In general, the parts themselves usually cost between $20 and $100. Labor costs for installation range from $50 to $200, depending on the complexity of the installation and the mechanic's labor rate. Therefore, the total cost can range from $70 to $300.

What are the signs that a resistor is defective?

If the resistor shows signs of blackening or charring, it may be damaged by excess current flow. A resistor showing blackening or charring should be replaced and discarded. Read the resistor value visually. The resistor value will be printed on the resistor.

Can you use a multimeter as a resistor?

Don't worry, it'll work just fine as a pull-up or general resistor. Let's drop the meter down to the next lowest setting, 2KΩ.

What if there is no resistor?

Ideally, if there is no resistance ,i.e, short circuit is connected across an dc source, infinite current will flow as I=V/R, and R=0. 2. Practically, if you connect a wire directly across a battery, it will start heating.

How do you know if a resistor is not working?

In summary, to test a resistor we need to measure its resistance value. If this resistance value we measure is equal to its actual value, then it is a good resistor. If not then it is a bad resistor.

Do you lose voltage over a resistor?

The voltage drop across a resistor in a series circuit is directly proportional to the size of the resistor. If the circuit is broken at any point, no current will flow.

When can you say that the resistor is defective?

How do you know if a resistor is bad? A resistor might be faulty if the multimeter shows an open circuit or infinite resistance. Additionally, check for visual damage like burns or cracks on the resistor.

What are signs of a bad cooling fan relay?

Here are the key symptoms to look out for:
  • Engine Overheating 🌡️: One of the most obvious signs is your engine running hot. ...
  • Cooling Fans Not Working ❌🌀: If you notice that your cooling fans aren't turning on at all, this is a strong indicator that the relay may be bad.

How do I know if my fan capacitor is bad?

Signs of a failing capacitor include a fan that won't start, runs slowly, or only works on certain speeds. In some cases, a bulging or leaking capacitor is a clear indicator that it's time for a replacement.

Why isn't my fan kicking on in my car?

The most common reasons for a radiator fan not working can be a blown-out fuse, a bad relay, or a broken wire. The faulty coolant temp sensor might also be a reason behind it.

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