2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functional Radiator Fan in 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

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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 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 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 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. Next, inspect the fan assembly for any visible damage or signs of malfunction, as physical issues can often be the culprit. Following this, assess the fan clutch, as wear and tear can prevent it from engaging properly. It's also crucial to verify the coolant level, since low coolant can lead to overheating and affect the fan's operation. After these checks, examine the cooling fan relay to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a faulty relay can disrupt the fan's performance. Additionally, inspect the thermostat, as a malfunctioning unit may cause the fan to run continuously. Finally, if the problem persists, consider using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve trouble codes, which can provide deeper insights into the cooling fan system's issues. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively identify and address the underlying cause of your radiator fan's malfunction.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, it's essential to consider several common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits could be the fan assembly itself, which may have experienced wear or damage over time. Additionally, the fan clutch, responsible for engaging the fan when needed, might be malfunctioning, preventing the fan from operating correctly. Another critical component to inspect is the coolant temperature sensor; if this sensor is faulty, it can misread the engine's temperature, leading to improper fan operation. Furthermore, issues with the fan relay or the vehicle's ECU can disrupt the electrical signals necessary for the fan to function, potentially causing it to run continuously or not at all. Lastly, if the temperature gauge remains at zero or the fans engage in safety mode immediately upon ignition, this could indicate a deeper electrical issue that requires further investigation. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan problems in their Silverado.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD?

Repairing the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which may result in catastrophic engine damage and costly repairs. If you notice that your radiator fan is running continuously, it could indicate a deeper issue, such as a faulty fan relay, which must be addressed to maintain the integrity of your vehicle's cooling system. Additionally, any visible damage, such as broken or disconnected wiring, can prevent the fan from operating effectively, further exacerbating the risk of overheating. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to a breakdown on the road, putting both your safety and that of others at risk. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and repair any radiator fan issues as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.

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2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Radiator Fan Issues