2012 Audi Q5 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2012 Audi Q5 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 2012 Audi Q5 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 2012 Audi Q5 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 2012 Audi Q5?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2012 Audi Q5, 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, inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from activating. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it is not functioning, replacement may be necessary. 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 tool to scan for error codes related to the cooling system can provide further insights into the problem. Lastly, verify that coolant levels are sufficient, as low coolant can lead to overheating and impact fan performance. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2012 Audi Q5?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Audi Q5, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as a malfunctioning motor will prevent the fan from spinning and effectively cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. It's also crucial to check the temperature sensor, which plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate; if this sensor is faulty, it may not trigger the fan when needed. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can further complicate matters by preventing the fan from receiving power. Low coolant levels can also impact fan performance, as the fan relies on adequate coolant to regulate engine temperature. Lastly, a failed fan relay can obstruct the power flow to the fan, causing it to stop working altogether. By understanding these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the issues affecting their radiator fan.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2012 Audi Q5 to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2012 Audi Q5, urgency is paramount. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to inadequate cooling of the engine, significantly increasing the risk of overheating. This overheating can cause severe damage to essential engine components, including the cylinder head gasket and pistons, which can result in costly repairs or even total engine failure. Ignoring the signs of a non-working fan not only jeopardizes your vehicle's performance but also poses a safety risk on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to address any issues with the radiator fan immediately. By doing so, you can ensure the longevity and optimal functioning of your vehicle, preventing the need for extensive repairs down the line. Taking swift action will not only save you money but also provide peace of mind while driving.

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2012 Audi Q5 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Solutions