2009 Ford F-150 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2009 Ford F-150: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2009 Ford F-150 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 2009 Ford F-150 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 are the steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2009 Ford F-150?

To effectively diagnose a non-working radiator fan in your 2009 Ford F-150, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt the fan's operation. If the fuse is intact, move on to inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. A malfunctioning sensor can disrupt this process. Finally, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can impede electrical flow to the fan. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2009 Ford F-150?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2009 Ford F-150 has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to spin, leading to engine overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, effectively shutting down the fan. Another potential issue is a defective relay, which is responsible for controlling the power to the fan; if this component fails, the fan won't activate when needed. It's also important to inspect the fan blades themselves, as any damage or breakage can hinder air circulation, exacerbating overheating issues. Furthermore, a malfunctioning coolant temperature sensor may not signal the fan to turn on at the appropriate temperature, while wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection, preventing the fan from receiving power. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's cooling system and preventing engine damage.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Ford F-150 to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Ford F-150 is of utmost urgency, as neglecting this problem can lead to severe engine overheating and significant damage. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool, and without it, the engine is at risk of overheating. This can result in catastrophic failures such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, which are not only costly to repair but can also render the vehicle inoperable. Furthermore, an overheating engine can lead to diminished performance and increased fuel consumption, ultimately affecting the vehicle's reliability. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to maintain the vehicle's cooling system and prevent any overheating-related issues that could compromise the engine's integrity. Taking prompt action will not only safeguard the engine but also enhance the overall longevity and performance of the Ford F-150.

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