2015 Ford Transit-250 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in 2015 Ford Transit-250

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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 2015 Ford Transit-250 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 2015 Ford Transit-250 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 2015 Ford Transit-250?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Ford Transit-250, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Following this, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, ensure that the temperature sensor is functioning correctly, as it is responsible for activating the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Don’t overlook the wiring and connections, as damaged or corroded wires can disrupt power flow to the fan. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for any trouble codes can provide valuable insights into specific issues affecting the fan system. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the problem, ensuring your vehicle's cooling system operates effectively.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2015 Ford Transit-250?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Ford Transit-250, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it directly impacts the fan's ability to cool the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. It's also crucial to check the temperature sensor, which plays a vital role in activating the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature; if this sensor fails, the fan may not turn on as needed. Wiring issues, such as loose connections or frayed wires, can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, while low coolant levels can prevent the fan from functioning properly, as the fan relies on adequate coolant to manage engine temperature. Lastly, the fan relay, which sends power to the fan, can also be a point of failure. By systematically examining these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the issue of a non-working radiator fan.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Ford Transit-250 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Ford Transit-250 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, including blown head gaskets, warped cylinder heads, and even a cracked engine block. These issues not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs or the need for a complete engine replacement. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning fan promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's health and preventing extensive damage. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of this repair can save both time and money in the long run, making it imperative to act quickly when faced with this issue.

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2015 Ford Transit-250 Radiator Fan Issues & Solutions