2022 BMW X4 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2022 BMW X4 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 2022 BMW X4 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 2022 BMW X4 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 initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2022 BMW X4?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2022 BMW X4, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause efficiently. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a faulty relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. If both the fuse and relay are functioning correctly, proceed to test the fan motor itself by applying direct power to see if it operates. Should the motor fail to spin, it may require replacement. Additionally, verify the temperature sensor's functionality, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Don't overlook the wiring; inspect for any damage or loose connections that could impede power delivery to the fan. Finally, utilizing a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can provide valuable insights into any underlying issues affecting the radiator fan system. By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan problem in your BMW X4, ensuring optimal engine cooling and performance.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2022 BMW X4?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2022 BMW X4, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can fail to spin and lead to overheating if not addressed. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, effectively shutting down the fan's operation. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature, resulting in inadequate cooling. It's also important to check for any physical damage, such as broken fan blades, which can hinder airflow and cooling efficiency. Lastly, wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection between the fan and the vehicle's system, preventing it from functioning properly. By being aware of these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and fix radiator fan issues, ensuring their BMW X4 remains in optimal working condition. Regular maintenance and inspections are key to catching these problems early and avoiding more significant engine damage.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2022 BMW X4 to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2022 BMW X4, the consequences of neglecting this issue cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. If the fan fails, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These repairs can be costly and time-consuming, not to mention the potential for complete engine failure. Additionally, an overheating engine can compromise performance, increase emissions, and create safety hazards, particularly if the vehicle breaks down unexpectedly. Therefore, addressing any malfunction with the radiator fan should be a top priority to ensure the vehicle's cooling system operates effectively and to prevent more significant issues down the line. Taking prompt action not only safeguards the engine's health but also enhances the overall performance and reliability of your BMW X4.

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