2022 Ford Explorer Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2022 Ford Explorer 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 2022 Ford Explorer 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 2022 Ford Explorer 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.

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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2022 Ford Explorer?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2022 Ford Explorer, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan. Testing or replacing a faulty relay can often resolve the problem. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling 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 functionality. Finally, using an OBD-II scanner to check for diagnostic trouble codes can provide valuable insights into any underlying issues within the cooling system. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of your radiator fan's malfunction.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2022 Ford Explorer?

When facing issues with the radiator fan in a 2022 Ford Explorer, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to operate altogether, leaving the engine vulnerable to overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, rendering the fan inoperative. Another potential culprit is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature, leading to inadequate cooling. Physical damage, such as broken fan blades, can also hinder the fan's ability to rotate, while wiring issues can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power. By identifying these common failure modes, DIYers can systematically diagnose the problem and take the appropriate steps to restore the radiator fan's functionality, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2022 Ford Explorer to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2022 Ford Explorer, urgency is key. A non-functioning radiator fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which poses significant risks not only to the engine itself but also to the overall performance of your vehicle. If the fan fails to operate, the engine may quickly reach dangerous temperatures, resulting in costly damage such as warped cylinder heads or a compromised engine block. Additionally, prolonged overheating can affect other critical components, including the transmission, leading to even more extensive repairs. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan can also diminish your vehicle's fuel efficiency, further compounding the issue over time. Therefore, addressing this problem promptly is essential to safeguard your engine and maintain the reliability of your Ford Explorer. Taking immediate action can save you from the headaches and expenses associated with major repairs down the line.

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2022 Ford Explorer Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Repairs