2017 Audi A4 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2017 Audi A4 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 2017 Audi A4 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 2017 Audi A4 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

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 2017 Audi A4?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A4, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. 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, proceed to inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can also prevent the fan from activating. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if the motor is defective, it will need replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power supply. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes related to the cooling system can provide further insights into the problem. Finally, monitor the vehicle's temperature gauge while it is running; if the engine begins to overheat, this may indicate that the radiator fan is not functioning as it should. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the issues with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2017 Audi A4?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A4, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can fail to spin and lead to engine overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, rendering the fan inoperative. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Physical damage, such as broken fan blades, can also hinder the fan's ability to rotate, further exacerbating cooling issues. Lastly, wiring problems, including frayed or disconnected wires, can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power to function. By identifying these common problems, DIYers can take the first steps toward troubleshooting and repairing their vehicle's cooling system effectively.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A4 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A4 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 this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including blown head gaskets and damaged pistons. Additionally, overheating can compromise the integrity of engine oil and coolant, resulting in further complications and costly repairs. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan not only increases the likelihood of engine failure but also poses safety risks while driving. Therefore, it is crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure the engine operates within its optimal temperature range and to avoid the financial burden of extensive repairs down the line.

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