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.
To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Ford Taurus, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily rectifiable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning 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, check the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as faulty wiring can disrupt the fan's functionality. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for any trouble codes can provide insights into specific issues affecting the radiator fan system. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the problem with your radiator fan.
When diagnosing why the radiator fan is not functioning in a 2017 Ford Taurus, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as a malfunctioning motor will prevent the fan from spinning and adequately cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, so checking the fuse box for any damaged fuses is a crucial step. Another potential issue is a faulty temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Wiring problems can also hinder the fan's operation, as damaged or corroded wires may prevent power from reaching the motor. Furthermore, low coolant levels can affect the fan's performance, so ensuring that the coolant is topped off is vital. Lastly, relay issues can impede the fan's functionality, making it important to inspect the relay for any signs of damage. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan issue in your Ford Taurus.
Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Ford Taurus 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. When the fan fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage to vital components such as the cylinder head gasket and pistons. Overheating can also degrade engine oil, compromising its ability to lubricate moving parts and increasing the likelihood of further mechanical failures. Ignoring this issue can result in costly repairs or even necessitate a complete engine replacement. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan immediately to safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity.
Read about related problems experienced by other Ford Taurus drivers like you.
See what others are asking about their Ford Taurus. Get answers from RepairPal's community of auto experts and enthusiasts.
