2013 Acura TL Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2013 Acura TL and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2013 Acura TL 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 2013 Acura TL 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-functioning radiator fan in my 2013 Acura TL?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Acura TL, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may require replacement to restore functionality. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor itself may need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can prevent the fan from activating when the engine reaches the necessary temperature. Don’t overlook the wiring connected to the fan; damaged or loose connections can disrupt power flow. Lastly, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can also affect fan performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can identify and address the issue with your radiator fan effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2013 Acura TL?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 Acura TL, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from spinning and lead to overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, causing the fan to stop working altogether. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. It's also important to check for any physical damage, such as broken fan blades, which can hinder air circulation and cooling efficiency. Lastly, wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection between the fan and the vehicle's system, preventing it from operating correctly. By systematically examining these areas, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan problem, ensuring optimal engine cooling performance.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Acura TL to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Acura TL is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When the fan fails, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, or even complete engine failure. Additionally, an overheating engine can compromise performance, increase emissions, and create safety hazards if the vehicle breaks down unexpectedly. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing this issue promptly not only helps maintain the vehicle's reliability but also prevents costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is crucial to take action immediately to safeguard your engine and ensure the longevity of your Acura TL.

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