2007 BMW 750Li Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2007 BMW 750Li 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 2007 BMW 750Li 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 2007 BMW 750Li 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 initial steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan on a 2007 BMW 750Li?

To effectively diagnose a non-working radiator fan on your 2007 BMW 750Li, start by examining the electrical system that powers the fan. This includes checking the connections and any signals from the air conditioning and engine cooling systems that may trigger the fan to operate. Next, inspect the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is functioning correctly; a simple test can reveal whether the motor is receiving power. Pay attention to any symptoms such as the engine overheating, which often indicates a malfunctioning cooling fan. If the fan does not activate even when the air conditioning is engaged, this could further suggest a fault. Additionally, consider evaluating related components like the Fan Assembly, Fan Clutch, and Coolant Temperature Sensor, as these can also contribute to the issue. For a comprehensive understanding of the repair process, consulting a detailed service manual specific to the 2007 BMW 750Li will provide valuable insights into the necessary procedures and specifications. By following these steps, you can systematically identify the cause of the radiator fan failure and take appropriate action to resolve it.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2007 BMW 750Li?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2007 BMW 750Li, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. The fan assembly itself is a critical component; if it is damaged or has electrical issues, it may fail to operate. Additionally, the fan clutch, which regulates the fan's engagement based on engine temperature, can also malfunction, leading to inadequate cooling. Another key element to examine is the coolant temperature sensor, as it provides vital information to the engine control unit regarding when to activate the fan. If this sensor is faulty, it may not signal the fan to turn on, resulting in overheating. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the issue, ensuring their BMW 750Li maintains optimal engine temperature.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 2007 BMW 750Li to avoid overheating?

Fixing the radiator fan in your 2007 BMW 750Li is not just a maintenance task; it is an urgent necessity to prevent severe overheating and potential engine failure. The radiator fan is essential for regulating engine temperature, and any signs of malfunction—such as unusual noises, erratic fan operation, or engine overheating—should be taken seriously. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to catastrophic consequences, including extensive engine damage that could result in costly repairs or even complete engine replacement. Therefore, if you notice any issues with your radiator fan, it is crucial to address them immediately. Taking swift action not only safeguards your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road, making it imperative to prioritize this repair.

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