2020 Honda Civic Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2020 Honda Civic 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 2020 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 2020 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2020 Honda Civic?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2020 Honda Civic, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Begin by checking 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, the next step is to inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can also prevent the fan from receiving power. Following this, examine the fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if the motor is faulty, it may require replacement. Additionally, testing the fan switch is crucial, as a defective switch can disrupt the signals necessary for the fan to activate. Don’t forget to check the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can significantly impact functionality. Lastly, verify that your coolant levels are adequate, since low coolant can lead to overheating and affect the fan's performance. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the radiator fan issue in your Honda Civic.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2020 Honda Civic?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2020 Honda Civic has stopped working, 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 radiator 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 it may be faulty and require replacement. Additionally, examine the fan blades for any signs of damage or breakage, as this can hinder the fan's ability to spin effectively. Another critical component to assess is the temperature sensor; if it is malfunctioning, it may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary. Wiring issues can also contribute to fan failure, so ensure that all connections are secure and free from damage. Lastly, keep an eye out for coolant leaks, as these can lead to engine overheating and may affect the radiator fan's performance. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's cooling system and preventing potential engine damage.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Honda Civic?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2020 Honda Civic, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health. If the fan fails to operate, the engine temperature can rise uncontrollably, resulting in warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, both of which can lead to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Additionally, driving with a faulty fan places extra strain on other components of the cooling system, such as the water pump and thermostat, potentially leading to further complications. Therefore, it is crucial to address any issues with the radiator fan immediately to maintain the integrity of your vehicle's cooling system and prevent long-term damage. Taking prompt action not only safeguards your engine but also ensures a safer driving experience.

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2020 Honda Civic Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Repairs