2021 Chevrolet Colorado Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Radiator fan not working in 2021 Chevrolet Colorado: 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 2021 Chevrolet Colorado 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 2021 Chevrolet Colorado 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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily rectifiable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to operate. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a defective motor will require replacement. Additionally, inspect the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can impede power delivery. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes related to the cooling system can provide further insights into the problem. Lastly, verify that the coolant levels in the radiator are adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issues affecting the radiator fan in your Chevrolet Colorado.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit; if the motor fails, the fan will be unable to spin, resulting in inadequate cooling of the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. Another potential issue is a faulty relay, which is responsible for sending power to the fan motor; if this component malfunctions, the fan will not function as intended. The coolant temperature sensor is also critical, as it regulates when the fan should activate; a defective sensor may fail to trigger the fan, leading to overheating. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can further impede the fan's operation by preventing it from receiving the necessary power. Lastly, physical damage to the fan blades, such as bending or breaking, can hinder their ability to spin effectively. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can identify and resolve the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan in their Chevrolet Colorado.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2021 Chevrolet Colorado, addressing any malfunction should be a top priority. The radiator fan is essential for regulating your engine's temperature, and a failure to repair it can lead to severe overheating issues. This not only risks damaging critical engine components but can also result in unexpected breakdowns, leaving you stranded and facing costly towing fees. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of this repair is crucial; neglecting the symptoms can escalate into more significant problems that are both time-consuming and expensive to fix. By promptly addressing a non-working radiator fan, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance your driving safety, making it a vital task that should not be overlooked.

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2021 Chevrolet Colorado Radiator Fan Not Working | RepairPal