Identifying and Resolving Five Common Radiator Fan Issues to Keep Your Car Going
Radiator fans are an important component of any vehicle as they work to keep the car from overheating, thus avoiding engine damage or other costly repairs. It is essential to maintain the radiator fan in order to ensure that it functions properly. Unfortunately, there are several common problems associated with radiator fans that can arise if the fan is not checked and serviced regularly. Knowing and understanding the five most common radiator fan problems will help you diagnose the issue and act accordingly to fix it.
The first problem that may occur is the blowing of a fuse. Fuses are designed to protect your vehicle’s systems from power overloads, and they often fail when enough current passes through them. One of the common problems with radiator fans is that they can draw too much current, causing the fuse to blow. To check this, it is best to lift the hood and locate the fuse box. Check if the fuse for the radiator fan is in place and, if not, replace it with a new one.
Another frequent issue with radiator fans is a faulty or broken fan wire. On older cars, this can happen with age and wear. To check, you must locate the two fan wires running from the radiator fan and disconnect them. Then use a voltmeter to check the voltage, which should be 12 volts of direct current. If no voltage is present, it is necessary to check the wires and the fan relay to see if they are in need of replacement.
The third common problem you may encounter with a radiator fan is that the temperature sensor is not working. This sensor is what detects the temperature of the cooling system and turns the fan on. If it is not functioning properly, the fan won’t be activated and your car can start to overheat. Locate the temperature sensor, usually on or near the thermostat cover, and disconnect its wires. If, when the wires are touched together, the fan comes on, then you know the sensor must be replaced.
Not having enough engine coolant can be another issue to consider when the radiator fan isn’t working properly. Always have the coolant at the maximum level indicated by the markings on the reservoir in the engine. If the coolant is low, topping it off with the exact type of coolant specified in the vehicle’s manual should resolve the issue with the radiator fan.
The last common issue when it comes to radiator fans is the fan clutch. This assembly holds the fan to the engine and is in charge of making it turn. When it fails or wears out, the fan will stop working and can no longer cool the car. The best way to go about fixing a failed fan clutch is to purchase a kit and tool and uninstall the fan. Then, simply replace the fan clutch and reinstall the fan.
In conclusion, radiator fans are a vital component of any vehicle as they keep the car within its ideal temperature range. Knowing and understanding the five most common radiator fan problems can help you correctly diagnose the issue and quickly repair it. To avoid potential failures and costly repairs, be sure to regularly inspect and maintain your radiator fan.
