2019 BMW 330i Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2019 BMW 330i and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 BMW 330i 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 BMW 330i 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.

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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 BMW 330i?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 BMW 330i, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate checks. Start by inspecting 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 the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it spins, the motor is likely functional. If the fan does not operate, check the temperature sensor, which is crucial for activating the fan based on engine temperature. Ensure it is sending accurate signals. Additionally, inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt power flow. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner can help identify any error codes related to the radiator fan system, providing further insights into the problem. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2019 BMW 330i?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 BMW 330i, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the electrical flow to the fan, so checking the fuse box for any blown fuses is a crucial step in your troubleshooting process. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Furthermore, inspect the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can prevent the fan from functioning properly. Lastly, ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and may cause the fan to stop working altogether. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively diagnose and fix the radiator fan problem in your BMW, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2019 BMW 330i to avoid engine damage?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in your 2019 BMW 330i is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by cooling the radiator; without it, the engine is at risk of overheating. This overheating can lead to catastrophic consequences, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs and even complete engine failure. Additionally, neglecting this issue can compromise other vital components, such as the water pump and thermostat, further escalating repair costs. The safety risks associated with driving an overheated engine are significant, as it can lead to sudden breakdowns while on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan immediately, ideally by consulting a qualified mechanic or an authorized BMW service center, to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. Taking prompt action not only protects your vehicle's engine but also enhances your safety on the road.

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2019 BMW 330i Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Repairs