2017 Audi A6 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2017 Audi A6 and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
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 2017 Audi A6 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 A6 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 A6?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2017 Audi A6, 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 also prevent the fan from activating. 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 triggering the fan when needed. Don’t overlook the wiring; examine it for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt power flow. Finally, utilize a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes that may provide further insight into the problem. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle operates smoothly.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2017 Audi A6?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A6, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, so checking the fuses is a straightforward first step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. It's also crucial to inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can prevent the fan from receiving power. Lastly, ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can affect the fan's performance. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your Audi A6.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A6 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Audi A6 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 to critical parts such as the cylinder head gasket, pistons, and cylinders. Overheating can also compromise the integrity of engine oil and coolant, resulting in further complications that may necessitate costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly is vital not only for the immediate performance of your vehicle but also for preventing long-term damage and ensuring your safety on the road. Prioritizing the repair of the radiator fan will help maintain the optimal functioning of your Audi A6 and extend its lifespan.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2017 Audi A6 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs