2016 Cadillac CT6 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Working Radiator Fan in a 2016 Cadillac CT6

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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 2016 Cadillac CT6 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 2016 Cadillac CT6 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2016 Cadillac CT6?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2016 Cadillac CT6, it's crucial to follow a methodical approach that emphasizes simpler checks before tackling more complex issues. Start by examining the fuse linked to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a frequent culprit that can be easily replaced. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan; a faulty relay may need to be swapped out. After confirming the relay's functionality, test the fan motor to ensure it is receiving power; if the motor is unresponsive, it might require replacement. Additionally, the temperature sensor should be checked, as it is responsible for activating the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Pay attention to the wiring connected to the fan, as any damage or loose connections can lead to operational issues. Lastly, utilizing a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can help uncover any hidden problems within the cooling system. By adhering to this structured diagnostic process, you can effectively pinpoint and address the issues affecting your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2016 Cadillac CT6?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2016 Cadillac CT6 is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as wear and tear can lead to complete failure, necessitating a replacement to restore operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt power, so checking the fuses is a straightforward first step in troubleshooting. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning relay, which controls the fan's operation; replacing a faulty relay can often resolve the problem. Furthermore, the coolant temperature sensor plays a critical role in signaling the fan to activate; if this sensor is defective, it may not trigger the fan when needed, leading to overheating. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan. By systematically addressing these common issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan problem in their Cadillac CT6.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2016 Cadillac CT6 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in your 2016 Cadillac CT6 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to engine overheating, which poses a serious risk of damaging critical engine components. If the engine temperature exceeds safe limits, it can result in costly repairs and potentially compromise the vehicle's performance. To address this issue, start by diagnosing the problem; check the fuse related to the radiator fan, inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage, and evaluate the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor for proper functionality. Consulting your owner's manual can provide specific guidance on locating the necessary components. By taking prompt action to repair the radiator fan, you not only safeguard your engine from overheating but also ensure the longevity and reliability of your Cadillac CT6.

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2016 Cadillac CT6 Radiator Fan Issues & Repair Costs