2014 Ford F-150 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2014 Ford F-150 and How to Fix It

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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 2014 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 2014 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 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 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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Ford F-150?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2014 Ford F-150, start with a visual inspection of the fan itself to ensure it is not obstructed and is in good condition. Next, check the fan motor and clutch for any visible defects, as these components are crucial for proper operation. It’s also important to examine the fan relay and associated fuses, as a blown fuse can prevent the fan from receiving power. If these components appear intact, proceed to test the temperature sensor, which plays a key role in activating the fan based on engine temperature. By systematically assessing these elements, you can identify the root cause of the issue, whether it be a simple fuse replacement or a more complex problem with the fan control module. This methodical approach not only saves time but also helps avoid unnecessary repairs, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts looking to troubleshoot their vehicle efficiently.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2014 Ford F-150?

When facing a non-functional radiator fan in a 2014 Ford F-150, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. The fan assembly itself may be defective, or the fan clutch could be malfunctioning, preventing the fan from engaging when needed. Additionally, the coolant temperature sensor plays a vital role in signaling the fan to operate; if this sensor is faulty, it may not trigger the fan at the appropriate times. Other issues to consider include a bad radiator fan relay, which can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to function, or low coolant levels that can lead to overheating and fan operation failure. Leaky radiator hoses can also contribute to coolant loss, further complicating the situation. Lastly, a faulty thermostat may prevent the engine from reaching the optimal temperature, thereby affecting the fan's operation. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue in their Ford F-150.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2014 Ford F-150 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2014 Ford F-150 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 receives adequate airflow for cooling. When this fan fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage to vital components such as the cylinder head gasket, pistons, and even the engine block itself. Ignoring the symptoms of a malfunctioning fan can result in costly repairs, including the possibility of a complete engine replacement if the overheating persists. Additionally, prolonged overheating can warp cylinder heads or crack the engine block, leading to even more extensive and expensive repairs. Therefore, addressing the issue of a non-working radiator fan promptly is crucial not only for the immediate health of your vehicle but also for preventing long-term damage and ensuring the longevity of your engine.

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