2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functional Radiator Fan in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan

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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 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan 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 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan 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 a non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

To diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate checks. Start by examining 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, move on to inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can also prevent the fan from activating. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power flow to the fan. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner can further aid in identifying any error codes related to the fan system, providing insight into potential underlying issues. Finally, verify the functionality of the coolant temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to improper fan operation. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the electrical flow, so checking the fuse box for any damaged fuses is a crucial step in your troubleshooting process. Another potential issue is a faulty relay, which controls the fan's operation; replacing this component can often resolve the problem. The coolant temperature sensor is also vital, as it signals the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it may prevent the fan from turning on. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical circuit necessary for the fan to function. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the radiator fan problem in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it, the risk of overheating escalates significantly. Overheating can lead to severe damage to vital engine components, including the head gasket and pistons, which can result in costly repairs or even a complete engine failure. Additionally, prolonged neglect of this issue can compromise the vehicle's overall performance, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize that addressing the radiator fan issue promptly not only safeguards the engine's integrity but also ensures the vehicle operates reliably and efficiently. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is advisable to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible to avoid more serious consequences down the line.

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