2019 BMW M5 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2019 BMW M5 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 2019 BMW M5 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 M5 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 M5?

To diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 BMW M5, 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 also prevent the fan from activating. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to confirm it is operational; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is vital for triggering the fan when needed. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as loose or frayed wires can lead to malfunctions. Finally, if the fan still does not operate, utilize a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes that may provide further insight into the underlying issue. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the problem with your radiator fan, ensuring your BMW M5 runs smoothly.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2019 BMW M5?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 BMW M5, it's essential to consider several 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 in the fan circuit can disrupt functionality, so checking for any blown fuses is a crucial step in your troubleshooting process. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which can lead to incorrect readings and prevent the fan from activating when necessary; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. It's also important to inspect the wiring connected to the fan, as damaged or loose connections can impede its performance. Lastly, ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can trigger safety mechanisms that disable the fan to prevent overheating. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your BMW M5.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 BMW M5?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 BMW M5, the urgency to address this issue cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by effectively dissipating heat generated during operation. If the fan fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, or even complete engine failure. These issues not only result in costly repairs but can also pose significant safety hazards while driving. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly and have the radiator fan inspected and repaired. While some DIY enthusiasts may feel confident in tackling this issue themselves, consulting a qualified mechanic or BMW dealership is advisable to ensure the cooling system functions correctly and to prevent further complications. Addressing the problem promptly will safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity, making it a priority for any responsible car owner.

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2019 BMW M5 Radiator Fan Problems & Repairs | RepairPal