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.
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.
When the radiator fans stop functioning properly, the engine temperature will rise. The spike in temperature will be highest when the vehicle is idling at a stop, but should subside once the vehicle begins moving again.
Additionally, the air conditioner typically won't blow as cold. This is because the air from the radiator fans also blows across the air conditioning condenser, so when the fans fail, both systems suffer.
You'll also usually see the check engine light and notice a drop in fuel economy. It's possible the fan will start making noise if it's failing, as well.
When dealing with a non-working radiator fan on a 2015 Ford Explorer, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Begin with a visual inspection of the fan while the engine is off and cool, looking for any obvious signs of damage or disconnection. Next, check the fuses associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuses are intact, proceed to examine the relays, as faulty relays can also prevent the fan from operating. Additionally, ensure that the coolant level is sufficient, as low coolant can affect the fan's functionality. By following these straightforward steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the radiator fan issue and potentially resolve it without needing professional assistance.
When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2015 Ford Explorer is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fan assembly itself; if the assembly is faulty, it may not spin or operate as intended, leading to overheating issues. Another critical component to examine is the fan clutch, which regulates the fan's operation based on engine temperature. A malfunctioning fan clutch can prevent the fan from engaging when needed, exacerbating cooling problems. Additionally, the coolant temperature sensor plays a vital role in signaling the fan to turn on; if this sensor is defective, it may not send the correct signals, resulting in the fan remaining inactive. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve radiator fan issues, ensuring their Ford Explorer runs smoothly and efficiently.
Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Ford Explorer is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool, especially during high-demand situations such as heavy traffic or towing. When the fan fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases, which can lead to severe consequences like warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's integrity but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Additionally, an overheating engine can diminish performance and fuel efficiency, making your vehicle less reliable. Therefore, addressing the malfunction of the radiator fan promptly is crucial to maintaining the health of your vehicle and preventing long-term damage.
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