2000 Chevrolet Cavalier Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Radiator fan not working in 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier: causes and solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan; a malfunctioning relay may need replacement. Following this, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor itself may require replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Faulty wiring and connections can also impede the fan's functionality, so ensure all related wiring is intact and undamaged. Lastly, verify that coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can affect the fan's operation. By methodically checking these components, you can effectively identify the cause of the radiator fan's malfunction and take appropriate action.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier?

When troubleshooting a non-working radiator fan in a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 functionality. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power to the fan, so checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward first step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary; replacing this sensor can ensure proper operation. Furthermore, the fan relay, which controls the power to the fan motor, can wear out over time, and inspecting it for wear and replacing it if needed can often resolve the issue. Lastly, low coolant levels can lead to overheating and may prevent the radiator fan from functioning correctly, so it's crucial to check and maintain adequate coolant levels. By systematically addressing these common causes, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and fix the radiator fan issue in their Cavalier.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool. When the fan fails, the engine is at a high risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's integrity but can also result in complete engine failure if the problem is not addressed swiftly. Additionally, an overheating engine can diminish performance, increase harmful emissions, and reduce fuel efficiency, ultimately affecting the vehicle's overall reliability. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to extensive and costly repairs down the line, making it imperative for vehicle owners to act quickly to resolve this issue. By prioritizing the repair of the radiator fan, you can safeguard your engine's health and ensure the longevity of your Chevrolet Cavalier.

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2000 Chevrolet Cavalier Radiator Fan Troubleshooting Guide