2020 Audi S8 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting Guide for Your 2020 Audi S8: Diagnosing and Fixing Radiator Fan Issues

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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 2020 Audi S8 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 2020 Audi S8 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 2020 Audi S8?

To diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2020 Audi S8, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate checks. Start by examining 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 determine if it is operational; if it’s not working, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power flow to the fan. Utilizing a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can provide further insights into any underlying issues. Lastly, ensure that the coolant levels are sufficient, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan performance. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue in your Audi S8, ensuring optimal vehicle performance.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2020 Audi S8?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2020 Audi S8 has stopped working, it's essential 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, preventing the fan from operating altogether. Another critical component to check is the temperature sensor; if it malfunctions, it may not signal the fan to activate when necessary. Over time, the fan blades themselves can wear out or sustain damage, diminishing their cooling efficiency. Lastly, electrical issues such as loose wiring or corroded terminals can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, causing it to stop functioning. By systematically addressing these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and restore the radiator fan's operation, ensuring the engine remains at an optimal temperature.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Audi S8?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2020 Audi S8, urgency is key. A non-functioning fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health. Overheating can warp the cylinder head, damage the head gasket, and ultimately result in catastrophic engine failure, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided. Additionally, a malfunctioning fan can compromise your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency, as the engine struggles to maintain optimal operating temperatures. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing this issue promptly is not just about maintaining your car's performance; it's also about ensuring your safety on the road. Ignoring the signs of a failing radiator fan can lead to dangerous situations, making it imperative to tackle this repair as soon as possible. By prioritizing the repair of your radiator fan, you can safeguard your engine and enhance the overall driving experience of your Audi S8.

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2020 Audi S8 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Solutions