2013 BMW 135is Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2013 BMW 135is 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 2013 BMW 135is 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 cause the engine cooling fan to operate improperly, leading to overheating or inadequate engine cooling.
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 2013 BMW 135is 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

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2013 BMW 135is?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 BMW 135is, start with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the coolant temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can prevent the fan from activating. Next, test the fan relay using a multimeter to ensure it is functioning properly, as a defective relay will not supply power to the fan. Following this, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or disconnection, as these issues can disrupt the electrical flow. Don’t forget to check the fuses related to the fan; replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward fix that can resolve the problem. Additionally, verify that the coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can affect fan operation. Finally, assess the fan motor and blades for any mechanical issues, ensuring that the blades spin freely and the motor operates correctly. By systematically following these steps, you can identify and address the root cause of the radiator fan malfunction, ensuring your engine remains cool and preventing potential overheating.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2013 BMW 135is?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 BMW 135is, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. Start by checking the fuse, as a blown fuse is often the simplest and most straightforward problem to resolve. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay, which controls the power to the fan; a faulty relay can disrupt the fan's operation. Additionally, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or breaks, as these can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary electrical signals. Lastly, consider the coolant temperature sensor, which plays a critical role in signaling the fan to activate; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it may not trigger the fan when needed. Addressing these issues promptly is vital, as neglecting a faulty radiator fan can lead to overheating and significant engine damage. For those who are not comfortable with DIY repairs, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure the radiator fan system is properly diagnosed and repaired.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 2013 BMW 135is to prevent overheating?

Addressing radiator fan issues in a 2013 BMW 135i is of utmost urgency due to the severe consequences of neglecting this critical component. The radiator fan plays a vital role in maintaining optimal engine temperatures; when it fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to catastrophic damage and costly repairs. Overheating warnings on the dashboard are not to be ignored, as they signal that the engine is not receiving adequate cooling. Promptly diagnosing and repairing the radiator fan can prevent further complications, ensuring the longevity of your vehicle and saving you from expensive fixes down the line. Therefore, if you notice any signs of radiator fan malfunction, it is essential to act quickly to safeguard your engine's health and performance.

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