2013 Ford E-250 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2013 Ford E-250 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 2013 Ford E-250 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 2013 Ford E-250 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

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2013 Ford E-250?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Ford E-250, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler solutions first. Start by checking the fuse linked to the radiator fan; a blown fuse is often an easy fix that can resolve the issue. If the fuse is intact, inspect the fan for any visible damage, such as broken blades or corrosion, which may indicate that it needs repair or replacement. Next, manually spin the fan blade to check for any blockages that could be preventing it from operating correctly. If the fan appears to be in good condition, test the starter relay, as a faulty relay can hinder the fan's activation. If these initial steps do not resolve the problem, consider more complex issues such as a defective fan motor, problems with the engine control module (ECM), or damaged wiring. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively pinpoint the issue with your radiator fan and take the appropriate actions to restore its functionality.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2013 Ford E-250?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2013 Ford E-250 is not working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fan assembly itself, which may have failed and requires inspection or replacement. Additionally, electrical issues such as a blown fuse or a malfunctioning starter relay can prevent the fan from operating, making it crucial to check these components first. If the electrical system appears intact, the fan motor may be faulty, or there could be issues with the engine control module (ECM) that affect fan operation. Lastly, damaged wiring can disrupt the power supply to the fan, leading to its failure. By systematically checking these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and restore functionality to the radiator fan in their Ford E-250.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Ford E-250 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Ford E-250 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including issues with the cylinder head gasket, pistons, and cylinders. Overheating can also cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly, leaving you stranded and potentially incurring expensive repair costs. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan can escalate the problem, leading to complete engine failure if not addressed promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your vehicle's engine, ultimately safeguarding your investment and enhancing your driving experience.

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