2014 BMW M6 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2014 BMW M6 and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
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 2014 BMW M6 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 2014 BMW M6 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2014 BMW M6?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2014 BMW M6, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the fan itself. Look for any visible damage, such as cracks or loose blades, and ensure that the fan is securely mounted without any wobbling. Next, check the coolant temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the ECU to activate the fan. If this sensor is malfunctioning, it could prevent the fan from operating. Additionally, testing the fan relay is essential, as a faulty relay can disrupt the electrical circuit needed to power the fan. If these components appear to be in good condition, proceed to test the fan motor, which is responsible for the fan's operation. A failed motor will require replacement to restore functionality. It's also important to consider common issues such as blown fuses, low coolant levels, or wiring problems that could affect the fan's performance. Utilizing a multimeter can help you verify the functionality of the fan relay and other electrical components. By systematically following these diagnostic steps, you can identify the root cause of the issue and take the necessary actions to ensure your radiator fan operates effectively, preventing potential engine overheating and costly repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2014 BMW M6?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a 2014 BMW M6, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. First, check the electrical system, as issues such as blown fuses or faulty wiring can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, investigate the signaling systems, including the air conditioning and engine cooling systems, which are responsible for activating the fan. A malfunction in these systems can lead to the fan not turning on when needed. Additionally, the radiator fan motor itself may be defective, which can be identified through visual inspection or testing. Lastly, consider the condition of the fan bearing; if it is worn out, it may cause the motor to draw excessive current, potentially blowing a fuse. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to ensure proper engine cooling and prevent overheating, making it vital for DIYers to methodically check each component involved in the radiator fan's operation.

How urgent is it to address the non-working radiator fan in a 2014 BMW M6?

Addressing a non-working radiator fan in a 2014 BMW M6 is of utmost urgency due to the critical role the fan plays in maintaining optimal engine temperature. When the radiator fan fails, it can lead to rapid overheating, which may occur within minutes under certain conditions. This overheating not only risks immediate engine damage but can also result in costly repairs down the line. Symptoms of a malfunctioning fan can stem from various issues, including a faulty fan motor or low coolant levels, and ignoring these signs can exacerbate the problem. While the air conditioning may still function, the risk of overheating increases, particularly during idling or low-speed driving. Therefore, it is essential for DIY enthusiasts to diagnose and address this issue promptly to ensure the vehicle's cooling system operates effectively, safeguarding the engine's health and performance.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2014 BMW M6 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs