2010 GMC Terrain Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2010 GMC Terrain and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2010 GMC Terrain 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 2010 GMC Terrain 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 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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2010 GMC Terrain?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2010 GMC Terrain, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin 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, which controls the power supply to the fan; a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power. Following this, test the fan motor itself by applying direct power to it; if the motor fails to operate, it may need replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; a faulty sensor can lead to the fan not turning on when required. Lastly, ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as any faults in the wiring can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue in your GMC Terrain.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2010 GMC Terrain?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2010 GMC Terrain is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at fault. A faulty fan assembly is often the primary suspect, as wear and tear can lead to complete failure. Additionally, issues with the fan clutch can prevent the fan from engaging properly, especially under high-temperature conditions. Another critical component to check is the coolant temperature sensor; if this sensor malfunctions, it may not signal the fan to turn on when needed, leading to overheating. Furthermore, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical circuit, halting the fan's operation entirely. Lastly, ensure that coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can affect the fan's performance and overall engine cooling efficiency. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring the radiator fan operates correctly to maintain optimal engine temperature.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2010 GMC Terrain to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in a 2010 GMC Terrain is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including the failure of critical parts like the cylinder head gasket and pistons. Overheating can also degrade engine oil and coolant, compounding the problem and potentially resulting in expensive repairs. In extreme cases, if the engine overheats for an extended period, it may seize completely, necessitating a costly engine replacement. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning radiator fan promptly is crucial to safeguard your vehicle's performance and avoid significant financial repercussions.

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