Radiator Fan Problems

Function

• The radiator fan is a vital element to maintaining cool engine temperatures. The fan pulls cooler air over the motor, turns the water pump that circulates radiator fluid, and also turns the drive pulley for the heat and air conditioning.

Types

• There are two common options for radiator fans. Imported cars that usually have front-wheel drive use an electric radiator fan to cool the fluid as it passes through the radiator. Electric radiator fans allow the fan to work without using the belt-driven power of the motor. This requires horsepower from the motor, decreasing gas mileage and making the engine work harder. The other type is a fan and clutch setup. This is a hub that attaches to the engine block and spins a pulley system to help drive the engine components. This type of fan pulls air onto the engine to help cool it down.

Effects

• A malfunctioning radiator fan will be noticeable through the instrumentation on your dashboard. Rising engine temperatures and air conditioning or heat not working properly are good indications that there is a problem with the radiator or radiator fan.

Solutions

• The first and easiest solution is to check the radiator fluid level. Low fluid levels can result in higher engine temperatures and ineffective heating or cooling in the passenger cabin. The fan clutch may also need to be replaced. The fan clutch is the hub that holds the fan to the engine. This clutch has springs that can corrode and wear out over time.

Considerations

• Service the motor at regular intervals. Service routines can help prevent a lot of problems, including overheating. Radiator fluid needs to be checked and flushed just like the other fluids in the vehicle. If you have upgraded your vehicle with an electric fan, be sure that the polarity on the wires is installed properly; otherwise, the air might not be flowing into the radiator.