A fan blower circuit has resistors in the circuit to change the fan speed.(more resistance, a slower fan speed.) When a resistor fails, the circuit is open, like turning off a light switch. Otherwise, the blower motor doesn't get any electricity and there isn't any excess electricity to burn up the motor. If the motor and resistor are placed close to each other, the resistor (which can get hot) may cause heating problems with the motor, but most engineers keep the two apart. In fact, more than likely the resistor will be in the plenum chamber, which allows the air to blow over the resistor to help it stay relatively cool. Usually the resistor will be mounted somewhere under the dash and be accessible by removing a few screws and a quick connector on the wiring.

The $150 for the motor and $30 for the resistor are about right for factory parts. Sixty bucks for the labor is about an hour for most shops, which is about right. If after market parts are available, they would be cheaper, but they may not be as dependable or have a warranty except for parts replacement. Mechanics don't like to practice, so they want the most dependable parts. Another thing, some of the blower motors are OEM parts specifically designed and built for the manufacturer. If so, there won't be any aftermarket replacements.

The only problem I see is the vast difference between the original quote and the refined quote. Either there is a lack of experience, or there was an error in looking up the parts and labor. The good thing is that even a dummy like me can change these things with a parts book and a little time, so there's not any real skill issues. image

One things to look at, when you get the parts: see if there are signs of corrosion from water or excess moisture. This may mean you have a leak or the evaporator core pan is not draining correctly. If your car has a cabin air filter, ask them to change it while they're under the dash. The filter is about $20, but well worth the money.