1999 Acura Integra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 1999 Acura Integra and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 1999 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 1999 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-working radiator fan in my 1999 Acura Integra?

To effectively diagnose the non-working radiator fan in your 1999 Acura Integra, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by testing the fan motor directly; this involves bypassing the standard electrical connections to see if the fan operates when powered directly. If the fan motor is functional, proceed to inspect the fan relay and fuse, as a failure in either component can disrupt the fan's operation. Next, examine the temperature sensor, since a malfunction here can prevent the fan from activating at the correct times. If these components check out, turn your attention to the fan control module, which is crucial for regulating the fan's activity. Additionally, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or disconnection, as this can also lead to power loss. If you still haven't identified the issue, testing the relays associated with the fan is essential, especially since they play a key role when the air conditioning is engaged. As a last resort, consider hardwiring the fan to determine if it is operational, which can help isolate the problem further. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the radiator fan issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 1999 Acura Integra?

When troubleshooting a non-working radiator fan in a 1999 Acura Integra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits could be a faulty fan assembly or fan clutch, which may prevent the fan from operating effectively. Additionally, the coolant temperature sensor plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to engage; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it could lead to the fan not turning on when needed. Another area to inspect is the serpentine belt, as wear and tear can cause it to slip or break, disrupting the fan's operation. Furthermore, issues with the fan switch or relay can also hinder the fan's functionality, so checking these components is vital. If the A/C system has been removed, it may affect the cooling fan's operation due to their interconnected nature. Lastly, a blown fuse could be a simple yet overlooked reason for the fan's failure, so it's wise to inspect the fuse box and replace any blown fuses while ensuring that no underlying wiring issues exist. By systematically examining these potential problems, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue in their Acura Integra.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 1999 Acura Integra to avoid overheating?

Fixing the radiator fan in a 1999 Acura Integra is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked, as neglecting this critical component can lead to severe overheating issues. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by effectively dissipating heat from the radiator. If the fan fails to operate correctly, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can cause extensive damage to vital components, resulting in costly repairs. Moreover, a malfunctioning fan compromises the overall efficiency of the cooling system, making it unable to manage heat effectively, especially in stop-and-go traffic or during hot weather. This situation not only increases the likelihood of engine damage but also poses safety risks while driving. Therefore, addressing any signs of radiator fan failure promptly is crucial for preventing overheating, ensuring the vehicle's longevity, and maintaining safe driving conditions. Prioritizing the repair of the radiator fan will ultimately save time and money by avoiding the repercussions of engine failure.

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