2012 Honda Fit Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2012 Honda Fit 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 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 2012 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 2012 Honda Fit?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2012 Honda Fit, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a burnt fuse is often the simplest explanation for a malfunction. If the fuse is intact, proceed to test the radiator fan itself by using jumper wires to connect the terminals of the fan's connector, which will help you determine if the fan motor is operational. If the fan does not activate, inspect for any additional blown fuses that may affect the fan's performance. Should these initial checks not resolve the issue, consider other potential culprits such as a faulty starter relay, a defective fan motor, or even wiring damage, as these can also impede the fan's functionality. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to restore your vehicle's cooling system.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2012 Honda Fit?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2012 Honda Fit has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A blown fuse is often the first culprit to check, as it can easily disrupt the electrical circuit powering the fan. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the fan motor itself; a faulty motor may require replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, examine the fan blades for any signs of damage, as broken blades can hinder the fan's ability to spin effectively. Another critical component to assess is the temperature sensor; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary. Wiring issues, such as shorts or breaks in the circuit, can also prevent the fan from operating, so a thorough inspection of the wiring is advisable. Lastly, be aware of any coolant leaks, as these can lead to engine overheating and may cause the fan to stop working altogether. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's cooling system and preventing potential engine damage.

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

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Honda Fit 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, leading to 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 for maintaining the vehicle's performance and longevity, ensuring that you avoid the significant financial burden of extensive engine repairs down the line.

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