2009 Honda Fit Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2009 Honda Fit 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 2009 Honda Fit 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 2009 Honda Fit 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 2009 Honda Fit?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2009 Honda Fit, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting 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, proceed to examine the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may require replacement to restore functionality. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor itself may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can prevent the fan from activating when the engine reaches the necessary temperature. Don’t overlook the wiring; inspect for any damage or loose connections that could disrupt power flow to the fan. Finally, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can also affect fan performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can identify and address the issue with your radiator fan effectively.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2009 Honda Fit?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2009 Honda Fit is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as wear and tear can lead to complete failure, necessitating a replacement to restore operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power flow, so checking the fuses is a straightforward first step in troubleshooting. 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 ensure the fan operates as intended. Wiring problems, such as damaged or loose connections, can also prevent the fan from receiving power, making it crucial to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Lastly, low coolant levels can affect the fan's performance, so verifying and topping off the coolant can sometimes resolve the issue. By systematically addressing these common causes, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan problem in their Honda Fit.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Honda Fit to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Honda Fit is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool. When the fan fails, the engine is at a high risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's performance but can also result in catastrophic engine failure if the problem is not addressed promptly. Additionally, an overheating engine can lead to increased emissions and reduced fuel efficiency, further impacting the vehicle's overall functionality. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to maintain the vehicle's safety and longevity, preventing costly repairs and ensuring reliable operation on the road.

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