2004 Honda Accord Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2004 Honda Accord and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2004 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 2004 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 are the initial steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2004 Honda Accord?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a 2004 Honda Accord, 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 straightforward issue that can easily be resolved. 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 operating. Following this, test the radiator fan motor itself to determine if it is functioning correctly, as a defective motor will require replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt performance. Finally, check the temperature sensor that activates the fan; if this sensor is faulty, it may not signal the fan to turn on when necessary. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2004 Honda Accord?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2004 Honda Accord, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the fan circuit; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the fan's operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the fan motor itself, as a faulty motor may prevent the fan from spinning. Additionally, examine the fan blades for any signs of damage or breakage, as this can hinder airflow and cooling efficiency. Another critical component to assess is the temperature sensor; if this sensor is defective, it may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any frayed or loose connections, as these issues can also impede the fan's functionality. By systematically evaluating these potential problems, you can effectively diagnose and address the reasons behind your radiator fan's failure, ensuring your Honda Accord remains cool and operational.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2004 Honda Accord to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2004 Honda Accord is of utmost urgency, as neglecting this problem can lead to severe engine overheating and subsequent damage. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator receives adequate airflow. When the fan fails, the engine may not cool effectively, increasing the risk of overheating. This can result in catastrophic damage, including blown head gaskets, warped cylinder heads, or even a cracked engine block, all of which can lead to expensive repairs or total engine failure. Furthermore, operating the vehicle under these conditions places additional strain on the engine and other components of the cooling system, compounding the risk of further damage. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of a malfunctioning radiator fan to maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity, ensuring safe and reliable operation on the road.

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