2012 Honda Civic Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2012 Honda Civic and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2012 Honda Civic 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 2012 Honda Civic 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 2012 Honda Civic?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2012 Honda Civic, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the fan itself. Ensure the engine is off and cool before checking for any visible damage, such as cracks or loose blades, and confirm that the fan is securely mounted. Next, test the electric radiator fan by connecting a fused 12v+ wire and ground wire directly to the fan's connector after unplugging it from the vehicle. This straightforward method will help you determine if the fan is operational. If the fan does not work, the next step is to examine the cooling fan relay, as a faulty relay is a common culprit for fan issues. Replacing a defective relay can often restore functionality. Additionally, check the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is another frequent cause of fan failure. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, be prepared for the possibility of more extensive repairs, which could range in cost depending on the underlying problem. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal working condition.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2012 Honda Civic?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Honda Civic, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at fault. One of the primary culprits is the fan assembly itself, which may have failed due to wear or damage. Additionally, the fan clutch or the coolant temperature sensor could be malfunctioning, preventing the fan from activating when needed. Another frequent issue is a faulty cooling fan relay, which is responsible for supplying power to the fan; if this relay is defective, the fan will not operate. Observing the temperature gauge can also provide clues; if the needle drops when the vehicle is in motion, it may indicate that the radiator fan is not engaging properly. Furthermore, a blown fuse or a stuck open relay can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, leading to its failure. Understanding these potential issues can empower DIYers to effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan problems in their Honda Civic, ensuring optimal engine cooling and performance.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Honda Civic to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Honda Civic 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 compromise the integrity of engine oil and coolant, resulting in further complications and costly repairs. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan not only increases the likelihood of engine failure but also poses safety risks while driving. Therefore, addressing this repair promptly is crucial to ensure the vehicle's reliability and longevity, safeguarding both the engine and the driver from potential hazards.

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