2015 Audi S3 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2015 Audi S3 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 2015 Audi S3 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 2015 Audi S3 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2015 Audi S3?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Audi S3, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing 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, move on to inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate based on engine temperature; a malfunction here can disrupt the fan's functionality. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as faulty wiring can also impede operation. Finally, utilize a diagnostic tool to scan for any error codes related to the cooling system, which can provide insights into specific issues affecting the radiator fan. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2015 Audi S3?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2015 Audi S3 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to spin, leading to overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, effectively shutting down the fan. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Furthermore, if the fan blades are damaged or broken, they won't be able to circulate air efficiently, exacerbating cooling issues. Lastly, wiring problems can also prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power, hindering its operation. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to avoid engine overheating and ensure the longevity of your vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify these problems early, allowing for effective DIY repairs.

How urgent is it to address the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Audi S3 to prevent potential engine damage?

When it comes to the non-working radiator fan in your 2015 Audi S3, the urgency to address this issue cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it functioning properly, your engine is at risk of overheating. This overheating can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads or even a cracked engine block, which can result in costly repairs and significant downtime. Moreover, neglecting this problem not only compromises your vehicle's performance and efficiency but also poses serious safety risks while driving. An overheated engine can fail unexpectedly, putting you and others on the road in danger. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect and repair the radiator fan as soon as possible, either by yourself if you have the skills or by consulting a qualified mechanic, to ensure the longevity and safety of your vehicle.

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