2013 Honda Civic Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2013 Honda Civic and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
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 2013 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 cause the engine cooling fan to operate improperly, leading to overheating or inadequate engine cooling.
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 2013 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 2013 Honda Civic?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Honda Civic, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the cooling fan relay, as a faulty relay is a common culprit for fan issues. Next, test the radiator fan itself by unplugging its connector and using jumper wires to see if it activates; if it doesn’t, replacement may be necessary. Following this, inspect the coolant temperature sensor, which plays a crucial role in signaling the ECU to activate the fan. Don’t forget to check for blown fuses related to the fan system, as this is another frequent cause of malfunction. Pay attention to signs of engine overheating or steam under the hood, which can indicate that the fan is not operating as it should. By systematically addressing these areas, you can pinpoint the problem and take the necessary steps to restore your radiator fan's functionality.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2013 Honda Civic?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2013 Honda Civic is not working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at fault. A blown fuse is often the first culprit to check, as it can easily disrupt the electrical flow to the fan. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the cooling fan relay, which serves as a switch controlling the fan's power; a malfunction here can prevent the fan from operating. Additionally, examine the wiring for any breaks or damage that could interrupt the electrical connection. The coolant temperature sensor also plays a vital role; if it fails, it may not signal the fan to activate when needed. Furthermore, ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can affect the fan's performance. Lastly, inspect the fan itself for any signs of physical damage that could hinder its operation. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively identify and resolve the issue, ensuring the vehicle's cooling system functions properly and preventing potential overheating.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 2013 Honda Civic to prevent overheating?

Fixing the radiator fan in your 2013 Honda Civic is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to rapid engine overheating, particularly during strenuous driving conditions or in high temperatures. When the radiator fan fails to operate, the radiator struggles to dissipate heat effectively, which can result in severe mechanical failures and costly repairs. Moreover, if the radiator fan relay is faulty, it can cause the engine to overheat even when the vehicle is turned off, putting your engine at significant risk of damage. Timely intervention is essential not only to maintain the performance of your vehicle but also to prevent potential safety hazards associated with engine overheating. Therefore, addressing any radiator fan issues promptly is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of your Honda Civic.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.