How to Replace 97012248 Range Hood Motor Assembly on Broan NuTone — Step-by-Step

Your 12-year-old Broan range hood stopped pulling smoke and grease, or it's making a grinding noise that won't quit. You've cleaned the filters, checked the switch, and nothing's changed. That's the classic sign your motor assembly has called it quits — bearings seize up, windings burn out, and the fan just won't spin anymore.

The good news? Swapping out the 97012248 motor assembly is one of the easiest appliance repairs you'll ever tackle. One user put it perfectly: "I removed the screen over the exhausted fan, use a socket to remove bolts disconnected power cable and pulled assembly out. I merely install assembly in reverse order. 20 minutes top for repair, saved at least $90 service charge not including their cost for the part."

What You Need Before Starting

• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Socket set (typically 1/4" or 5/16" depending on your model)
• Work gloves (those metal edges are sharp)
• Flashlight or headlamp

Repair Time: 5-20 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

This replacement works on Broan models 40000-B through 40000-H, 42000-K, 42000-L, and the entire F40000 series including F402401, F402402, F403001, F403002, and dozens more. Check your model number on the interior panel of your hood.

Safety First

Turn off the circuit breaker that powers your range hood — not just the wall switch. Range hoods pull 3-7 amps, and you don't want any surprises when you're disconnecting wires. If you can't identify the right breaker, shut off the main. Double-check by trying to turn the fan on after flipping the breaker.

Step 1: Remove the Grease Filter and Access Panel

Pop out or slide out the metal mesh grease filter. Most Broan models have filters that either slide toward you or push up and unhook. Once that's out, you'll see the fan blower and motor assembly. Some models have an additional light lens cover — remove that too if it blocks access to the mounting screws.

Step 2: Disconnect the Motor Wiring

Locate the wire connector plug — it's usually a white or black plastic connector joining the motor wires to the hood's main harness. Pull the connector apart (don't yank the wires themselves). If your model has individual wire nuts instead, untwist them and separate the wires. Take a quick phone photo of the connections before disconnecting — it'll save you headaches during reinstall.

Step 3: Unbolt the Motor Assembly

You'll find 2-4 bolts or screws securing the motor housing to the hood body. Most Broan models use 1/4" hex bolts or Phillips screws. Use your socket set or screwdriver to remove them completely. Support the motor with your other hand as you remove the last fastener — it'll want to drop.

Step 4: Pull Out the Old Motor and Fan

The entire motor and blower wheel assembly should now lift straight down and out. It might be stuck with 12 years of grease buildup, so wiggle it gently if needed. Once it's out, this is your chance to wipe down the cavity with degreaser — you're already in there anyway.

Step 5: Install the New 97012248 Motor Assembly

Lift the new motor assembly into position, aligning the mounting holes. Thread in the bolts or screws by hand first to make sure everything lines up, then tighten them with your socket or screwdriver. Don't overtighten — snug is good enough. Reconnect the wire connector (it only goes one way), making sure it clicks or seats fully. If you're using wire nuts, match the wire colors from your photo.

Testing After Installation

Turn the circuit breaker back on and test the fan at all speed settings. It should run smooth and quiet — a dramatic difference from the grinding or dead silence you had before. Check that the blower wheel spins freely and isn't rubbing against the housing. Let it run for 2-3 minutes to make sure the motor doesn't overheat or vibrate excessively.

Reinstall your grease filter and light cover. You're done. As one DIYer noted: "The new fan/motor arrived in just a few days and it took less than 5 minutes to install it. Simple easy project!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my range hood motor fail after only 12 years?

That's actually pretty good lifespan for a range hood motor. The 97012248 assembly runs constantly when you cook, dealing with heat, grease vapor, and humidity. Bearings wear out, windings accumulate grease that acts like insulation and causes overheating, and eventually the motor just can't turn anymore. Heavy cooking accelerates this wear.

Will this motor fit if my hood is ducted outside versus recirculating?

Yes, the 97012248 motor assembly works for both ducted and recirculating installations on compatible Broan and NuTone models. The motor doesn't care where the air goes — it just moves it. Your ductwork or charcoal filter setup stays the same.

The fan works but it's really noisy — do I need to replace the whole motor?

If you're hearing grinding, squealing, or rattling, the motor bearings are shot and yes, you need the full assembly replacement. Sometimes the blower wheel comes loose on the motor shaft and just needs tightening, but if the noise persists after checking that, replace the motor. It's a $42 part versus living with that racket for years.