2004 Dodge Neon Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2004 Dodge Neon and How to Fix It

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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 2004 Dodge Neon 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 2004 Dodge Neon 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 2004 Dodge Neon?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in your 2004 Dodge Neon, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex issues. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily rectifiable problem. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan; testing or replacing a faulty relay can often resolve the issue. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, ensure that the temperature sensor is functioning correctly, as it signals the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Don't overlook the wiring connected to the fan; inspect for any signs of damage, loose connections, or corrosion that could impede power flow. Lastly, verify that coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan operation. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the underlying issues with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2004 Dodge Neon?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2004 Dodge Neon is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from operating effectively and cooling the radiator as needed. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, so checking the fuse box for any damaged fuses is a crucial step in troubleshooting. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning relay, which controls the fan's operation; replacing a faulty relay can often restore functionality. Furthermore, the coolant temperature sensor plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate, and if it is not working correctly, the fan may not turn on when required. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also lead to fan failure. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and resolve the issue with the radiator fan in your Dodge Neon, ensuring it operates efficiently and keeps your engine cool.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2004 Dodge Neon to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2004 Dodge Neon is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which poses a significant risk of damaging critical engine components. When the engine temperature sensor fails to receive accurate data, it cannot trigger the fan to operate, exacerbating the overheating problem. Additionally, visible damage to the fan, such as broken blades or corrosion, should prompt immediate inspection and repair. A blown fuse is another common culprit that can prevent the fan from functioning, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Regular checks of the wiring harness are also essential to ensure the cooling system operates reliably. Therefore, addressing the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan promptly is crucial for maintaining the health of your vehicle and preventing costly repairs down the line.

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2004 Dodge Neon Radiator Fan Issues & Repairs | RepairPal