2021 Acura TLX Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2021 Acura TLX 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 2021 Acura TLX 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 2021 Acura TLX 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 the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2021 Acura TLX?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2021 Acura TLX, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate assessments. Start by checking 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, move on to inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, verify the functionality of the temperature sensor, which is crucial for activating the fan when needed. Don’t overlook the wiring connected to the fan; any damage or loose connections can disrupt its performance. Finally, check your coolant levels, as insufficient coolant can lead to overheating and may cause the fan to stop working altogether. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2021 Acura TLX?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in your 2021 Acura TLX has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common issues that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to spin, leading to engine overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, effectively shutting down the fan. Inspecting the fan blades is also important; any damage or breakage can hinder airflow, exacerbating cooling problems. Another potential culprit is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches high temperatures. Lastly, wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection, preventing the fan from receiving the necessary power. By systematically checking these components, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take appropriate action to restore your radiator fan's functionality. Regular maintenance and timely inspections are key to preventing these issues and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the non-working radiator fan in a 2021 Acura TLX?

Addressing a non-working radiator fan in your 2021 Acura TLX is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan plays a vital role in maintaining optimal engine temperature by dissipating heat from the radiator. If the fan fails, the engine is at a high risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. These issues not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Furthermore, driving in hot weather or heavy traffic exacerbates the risk of overheating, making it even more critical to resolve this issue promptly. Ignoring the symptoms of a malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to significant safety risks and long-term damage to your vehicle, underscoring the importance of immediate action.

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2021 Acura TLX Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs