2013 BMW 328i Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2013 BMW 328i 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 2013 BMW 328i 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 328i 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.

When the radiator fans stop functioning properly, the engine temperature will rise. The spike in temperature will be highest when the vehicle is idling at a stop, but should subside once the vehicle begins moving again.

Additionally, the air conditioner typically won't blow as cold. This is because the air from the radiator fans also blows across the air conditioning condenser, so when the fans fail, both systems suffer.

You'll also usually see the check engine light and notice a drop in fuel economy. It's possible the fan will start making noise if it's failing, as well.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2013 BMW 328i?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 BMW 328i, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the electrical system, ensuring that the fan motor is receiving power and that there are no loose connections or damaged wires. Next, test the radiator fan directly by connecting it to the car battery; if it operates, the issue may lie elsewhere. Following this, inspect the coolant temperature sensor, as a malfunctioning sensor can prevent the fan from activating. It’s also essential to test the fan relay, which controls the power to the fan, and check the associated fuses for any signs of failure. Additionally, visually inspect the fan for any physical damage, such as broken blades or corrosion, which could indicate the need for repair or replacement. Lastly, consider the condition of the fan motor itself, as a defective motor can be the root cause of the problem. If you notice any signs of overheating, refrain from driving the vehicle until the issue is resolved to avoid further damage. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2013 BMW 328i?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 BMW 328i, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One frequent issue is a malfunctioning fan assembly, which can prevent the fan from operating altogether. Additionally, a failed fan clutch may hinder the fan's ability to engage when needed, leading to overheating. Another critical component to check is the coolant temperature sensor; if this sensor is faulty, it may not signal the fan to turn on, resulting in inadequate cooling. Other potential issues could include electrical problems, such as blown fuses or damaged wiring, which can disrupt the fan's operation. By identifying these common failure modes, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and address the radiator fan issues, ensuring their BMW 328i maintains optimal engine temperature and performance.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 2013 BMW 328i to prevent overheating?

Fixing the radiator fan in a 2013 BMW 328i is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature; if it fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe and costly damage. Ignoring signs of a malfunctioning fan can result in catastrophic engine failure, leaving you with extensive repair bills and a compromised vehicle. Therefore, it is crucial to address any issues with the radiator fan immediately to ensure the engine remains cool and operates efficiently. By prioritizing this repair, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also protect your investment from the long-term consequences of overheating.

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2013 BMW 328i Radiator Fan Not Working Causes