2019 Audi SQ5 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2019 Audi SQ5 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 2019 Audi SQ5 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 2019 Audi SQ5 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2019 Audi SQ5?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 Audi SQ5, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, inspect the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan; testing or replacing a faulty relay can restore functionality. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, verify the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Don’t overlook potential wiring issues; examine the connections for any signs of damage, corrosion, or looseness that could disrupt the fan's operation. Finally, using an OBD-II scanner can help identify any error codes related to the cooling system, providing further insight into the problem. By following this structured approach, you can systematically diagnose and address the issues with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2019 Audi SQ5?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2019 Audi SQ5 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 engine overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, effectively shutting down the fan's operation. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature, resulting in inadequate cooling. Furthermore, broken fan blades can hinder the fan's ability to circulate air properly, while wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection necessary for the fan to function. Addressing these problems promptly is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature and preventing overheating, making it important for DIYers to be aware of these common failure modes when troubleshooting their vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2019 Audi SQ5 to prevent engine overheating?

When dealing with a non-working radiator fan in a 2019 Audi SQ5, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat effectively. If this component fails, the engine may not receive adequate cooling, leading to overheating, which can cause severe damage to critical engine parts such as the cylinder head gasket and pistons. Additionally, prolonged overheating can degrade engine oil and coolant, compounding the problem and potentially resulting in costly repairs or complete engine failure. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing this issue promptly is vital not only for the vehicle's performance but also for ensuring safety on the road. Ignoring the symptoms of a malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to significant risks, making it imperative to prioritize this repair to maintain the longevity and reliability of your Audi SQ5.

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2019 Audi SQ5 Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Repairs