2006 Honda CR-V Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2006 Honda CR-V 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 2006 Honda CR-V 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 2006 Honda CR-V 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-working radiator fan in my 2006 Honda CR-V?

To diagnose the non-working radiator fan in your 2006 Honda CR-V, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by verifying that both the radiator fan and the AC fan are not operational; this initial step can help you determine if the issue is isolated to one fan or if it affects both. Next, perform a simple test by turning on the vehicle and observing whether the fans engage. If they do not, check the fuses associated with the electric radiator fans, as a blown fuse could be the culprit. If the fuses are intact, proceed to inspect the fan motor and control module for potential failures. Additionally, manually spin the fan blades to ensure they are not obstructed, as this can indicate mechanical issues. By following these steps, you can effectively identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary actions to restore functionality to your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2006 Honda CR-V?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2006 Honda CR-V, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power, so checking for any blown fuses is a crucial step in your troubleshooting process. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Furthermore, inspect the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can also lead to fan failure. Lastly, ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can cause overheating and prevent the fan from functioning correctly. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your Honda CR-V.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2006 Honda CR-V to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to maintaining your 2006 Honda CR-V, addressing a non-functioning radiator fan should be a top priority. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it, the risk of overheating increases significantly. Overheating can lead to severe consequences, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. If you notice that your radiator fan isn't operating, especially during hot weather or in heavy traffic, it's crucial to act quickly. Delaying repairs not only jeopardizes the engine's integrity but also poses safety risks while driving. By tackling this issue promptly, you can save yourself from extensive damage and ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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