1990 Dodge Daytona Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 1990 Dodge Daytona and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 1990 Dodge Daytona 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 1990 Dodge Daytona 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-working radiator fan in my 1990 Dodge Daytona?

To effectively diagnose the non-working radiator fan in your 1990 Dodge Daytona, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fan assembly for any visible issues, as this is often the most straightforward problem to identify. Next, examine the fan clutch, which can sometimes fail and prevent the fan from operating correctly. It's also essential to test the coolant temperature sensor, as a malfunction here can inhibit the fan's activation. While the engine is running, monitor the fan's operation at idle or low speeds to see if it engages. If the fan remains inactive, proceed to test the fan relay, which controls the power supply to the fan. Additionally, check for any visible damage to the fan itself, including broken blades or corrosion, and inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or disconnection. Finally, don't forget to check the fuses related to the electric radiator fan, as a blown fuse can easily halt its function. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently pinpoint the issue and take the necessary steps to restore your radiator fan's operation.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 1990 Dodge Daytona?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 1990 Dodge Daytona, 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, so checking for any blown fuses is a crucial step in your troubleshooting process. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; replacing this sensor can ensure proper operation. Wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also prevent the fan from working, making it important to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Lastly, low coolant levels can affect the fan's performance, so verifying and topping up the coolant as needed is a simple yet effective measure. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your Dodge Daytona.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 1990 Dodge Daytona to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the failure of a radiator fan in a 1990 Dodge Daytona is of utmost urgency due to the critical role it plays in maintaining engine temperature. When the radiator fan is non-functional, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including blown head gaskets and damaged pistons. The consequences of neglecting this issue can escalate quickly; not only can overheating compromise engine oil integrity, but it can also result in catastrophic engine failure, necessitating expensive repairs or even a complete engine replacement. Furthermore, a malfunctioning fan can leave you stranded, posing safety risks on the road. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently, ultimately extending its lifespan and preventing costly breakdowns.

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1990 Dodge Daytona Radiator Fan Not Working | RepairPal