1991 Honda Accord Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 1991 Honda Accord and How to Fix It

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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 1991 Honda Accord 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 1991 Honda Accord 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 1991 Honda Accord?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 1991 Honda Accord, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting 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, proceed to examine the relay, as it plays a crucial role in supplying power to the fan. A malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from activating, so testing its functionality is essential. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which signals the fan to engage when the engine reaches a specific temperature; a faulty sensor can disrupt this process. Don’t overlook the wiring and connections, as damaged or loose wires can impede the fan's operation. Lastly, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 1991 Honda Accord?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 1991 Honda Accord has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as these motors can wear out over time, leading to complete failure. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to operate, making it a straightforward issue to check and replace. Another critical component is the temperature sensor, which monitors engine heat and signals the fan to activate; if this sensor malfunctions, it may fail to trigger the fan when needed. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also disrupt the electrical supply to the fan, preventing it from functioning. Furthermore, low coolant levels can impact the fan's efficiency, as the fan relies on proper coolant circulation to regulate engine temperature effectively. Lastly, the fan relay, which controls the power to the fan, can fail, resulting in the fan not turning on even when required. By systematically checking these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problem with your radiator fan.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 1991 Honda Accord to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in a 1991 Honda Accord is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by effectively dissipating heat from the radiator. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage to critical parts such as the engine block, cylinder head, and gaskets. This type of damage not only incurs significant repair costs but can also result in complete engine failure. Moreover, an overheating engine can seize while driving, creating a dangerous situation that could lead to accidents or breakdowns. Additionally, neglecting the radiator fan issue can adversely affect other engine components, including the water pump and thermostat, which rely on proper cooling to function effectively. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning radiator fan promptly is essential to safeguard your vehicle's performance and ensure your safety on the road.

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