2008 Acura TSX Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2008 Acura TSX 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 2008 Acura TSX 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 2008 Acura TSX 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 2008 Acura TSX?

To effectively diagnose the non-working radiator fan in your 2008 Acura TSX, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. Next, visually inspect the fan for any physical damage, such as cracks or loose blades, which could prevent it from functioning properly. If the fan appears intact, test the fan motor by directly connecting it to a power source to see if it operates, as this will help you determine if the motor itself is faulty. Additionally, ensure that there are no obstructions preventing the fan blades from spinning freely; manually rotate the blades to check for any blockages. Finally, verify the fan's operation by turning on the air conditioning, as the fan should engage when the AC is activated. If the fan does not respond, consider wiring it directly to the battery to confirm its functionality. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify the issue with your radiator fan and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2008 Acura TSX?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in your 2008 Acura TSX has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fan switch or sensor, as a malfunction here can prevent the fan from activating automatically. Additionally, a blown fuse is a frequent culprit; inspecting the fuse box for any damaged fuses and replacing them with the correct size and type can often resolve the issue. Another potential problem is a faulty relay, which can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan. It's also wise to examine the wiring for any breaks or damage that could interrupt the circuit. Lastly, a malfunctioning coolant temperature sensor may be preventing the fan from operating as intended. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your Acura TSX.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2008 Acura TSX?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2008 Acura TSX, urgency is key. A non-functioning fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health. Without the fan's cooling action, the engine can quickly reach dangerous temperatures, resulting in warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, both of which can lead to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Additionally, driving with a malfunctioning fan places extra strain on other components of the cooling system, such as the water pump and thermostat, potentially leading to further complications down the line. Ignoring the issue not only increases the likelihood of inconvenient breakdowns but also creates safety hazards, especially in hot weather or during stop-and-go traffic. Therefore, addressing the radiator fan issue promptly is essential for maintaining your vehicle's performance and longevity, making it a priority for any DIY enthusiast.

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