Acura ILX Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Acura ILX and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
34% chance it's the
Fan Motor or Clutch
0%
28% chance it's the
Fan Relay or Fuse
0%
23% chance it's the
Temp Sensor or Fan Control Module
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Acura ILX radiator fan isn't working are the fan assembly, the fan clutch, or the coolant temperature sensor.
  • Fan Motor or Clutch: A faulty fan motor or a malfunctioning fan clutch can result in inadequate cooling, causing the engine to overheat.
  • Fan Relay or Fuse: A faulty fan relay or blown fuse can prevent the cooling fan from operating, leading to engine overheating.
  • Temp Sensor or Fan Control Module: A faulty temperature sensor or fan control module can result in incorrect readings, causing the engine to overheat or the cooling fan to operate improperly.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Acura ILX radiator fan isn't working?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Over time serpentine belts stretch, crack, and the ribs that ride on the accessory pulleys being to wear smooth. A squealing noise that increases with engine speed or as engine driven accessories are turned on may be noted. The noise is caused by the belt slipping on the pulleys, insufficiently driving them. Ineffective air conditioning, a battery warning light, or intermittent power steering assist can result from this.

»MORE: Symptoms of a bad serpentine belt

The bad thermostat can cause two different sets of problems, depending on whether it's stuck open or stuck closed.

A thermostat that is stuck open can cause the engine to run colder than normal and turn on the check engine light. It may also cause poor fuel mileage and the heater to blow cool air.

A thermostat that is stuck closed will cause the vehicle to overheat. If a new thermostat doesn't resolve engine temperature problems, the cooling system needs to be checked for other issues.

» LEARN MORE: Signs of a bad thermostat, and how to fix it

When the engine coolant temperature sensor fails, it will send inaccurate information to the vehicle’s computer, causing the computer to react to false operating conditions. This will cause the engine to consume more fuel than normal, depleting fuel mileage, and causing black, sooty smoke from the engine under moderate to heavy acceleration. The check engine light will illuminate, and on-board diagnostic trouble codes may be stored for exhaust and emission system failure, fuel delivery system failure, and engine cooling system failure. Overheating may also occur, as the coolant sensor may be leaking fluid out of the engine, creating a an air pocket in the system.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in an Acura ILX

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Acura ILX, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the coolant level, as low coolant can hinder the fan's operation. If the coolant level is adequate, the next step is to inspect the fuse associated with the radiator fan circuit; a blown fuse can easily disrupt functionality. If both the coolant and fuse are in good condition, proceed to test the fan motor and clutch to determine if they are functioning correctly. Additionally, examine the fan assembly for any visible damage or obstructions that could prevent it from operating. Finally, verify the coolant temperature sensor's performance, as a malfunctioning sensor can lead to incorrect fan operation. By following this structured method, you can efficiently identify and resolve radiator fan issues, ensuring your Acura ILX runs smoothly.

How to Diagnose a Non-Working Radiator Fan in an Acura ILX?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in your Acura ILX, it's important to be aware of the common problems that may be causing the issue. One of the first things to check is the coolant level; low coolant can lead to overheating and prevent the fan from operating. Additionally, a blown fuse related to the radiator fan can disrupt its functionality, making it essential to inspect and replace any faulty fuses. If the fan motor is not spinning, it may indicate a failure, which can be tested by directly powering the motor. The coolant temperature sensor is another critical component; if it malfunctions, it may not signal the need for cooling, leading to fan inactivity. Inspecting the fan assembly for any visible damage and ensuring the fan clutch is working properly are also key steps in your diagnosis. Lastly, consider the fan relay and control module, as issues with these parts can significantly affect the fan's performance. By understanding these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issues with your radiator fan.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in an Acura ILX?

When the radiator fan in your Acura ILX fails to operate, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious consequences such as engine overheating, which can lead to costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. A malfunctioning radiator fan can disrupt the cooling system, causing the engine to reach dangerously high temperatures. This not only poses a risk to the engine's integrity but can also compromise your safety on the road. Therefore, it is essential to start your troubleshooting by checking the coolant level and inspecting the relevant fuses, as these are simpler fixes that can often resolve the problem. If these initial checks do not yield results, further investigation into the fan assembly, fan clutch, and coolant temperature sensor is necessary. Ensuring that all ground connections are secure and clean is also vital, as poor connections can hinder fan operation. By taking these steps, you can effectively diagnose and rectify the issue, safeguarding your vehicle's performance and longevity.

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