1996 Acura Integra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 1996 Acura Integra and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 1996 Acura Integra 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 cause the engine cooling fan to operate improperly, leading to overheating or inadequate engine cooling.
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 1996 Acura Integra 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.

What are the steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 1996 Acura Integra?

To effectively diagnose a non-working radiator fan in your 1996 Acura Integra, begin with the simplest checks to avoid unnecessary complications. Start by inspecting the coolant level in the radiator, as low coolant can prevent the fan from operating. Next, examine the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, proceed to test the fan switch to ensure it is functioning correctly. Following this, check the fan motor itself to confirm it is operational. If the motor is working, verify the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can disrupt the fan's operation. Additionally, inspect the temperature switch to ensure it activates the fan at the correct temperature. Don’t forget to check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can also lead to fan failure. Finally, ensure that the fan blades are securely attached to the motor and, if applicable, assess the fan clutch for proper operation. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 1996 Acura Integra?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 1996 Acura Integra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a straightforward issue that can easily be resolved by replacement. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the fan switch, which may be faulty and require replacement. Additionally, the fan motor itself could be the culprit; if it is not operational, servicing or replacing the motor may be necessary. Loose connections or a malfunctioning fan relay can also disrupt the fan's operation, so ensure all connections are secure and the relay is functioning correctly. Lastly, consider the engine temperature sensor and the AC fan switch, as issues with these components can also prevent the radiator fan from working effectively. By systematically addressing these potential problems, you can effectively diagnose and fix the radiator fan issue in your Acura Integra.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 1996 Acura Integra to prevent overheating?

Addressing the radiator fan issue in a 1996 Acura Integra is of utmost urgency, as neglecting it can lead to severe engine damage and safety risks. The radiator fan is essential for regulating engine temperature by dissipating heat; if it fails, the engine can quickly overheat. This overheating can result in costly repairs, including damage to the engine components, which may require extensive work or even a complete engine replacement. Additionally, if the radiator fan is malfunctioning, it can lead to low coolant levels, further exacerbating the overheating problem. A simple test, such as turning on the A/C to see if the fan engages, can help diagnose the issue. If the A/C fan operates but the radiator fan does not, it indicates a problem that needs immediate attention. Therefore, for anyone considering a DIY fix, addressing the radiator fan promptly is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of your vehicle.

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1996 Acura Integra Radiator Fan Not Working - Solutions