Any chance you have ICE in there? My Mother inlaw started having major ice issues in the fan housing in her old Ford last winter. It actually would not melt she had ice in there for over a week made getting the car windows cleared up for work a major issue. Eventually the fan failed and I had to find a local shop that would install a junk yard fan for her.
The old Taurus is a heap but keeps going. She really can't afford a new car I fully expect the wife and another family member to chip in for a new ride in the next year or so.
I had her drive the new Impreza sedan last month when she was visiting. Thinking we might find one used for a pretty good price. Seemed to fit her well and she liked it. It would also fit in the very small single car garage she has at her condo getting the car in out of the ice and snow which would be a major plus!!!