2018 Honda Fit Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2018 Honda Fit and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Honda Fit?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Honda Fit, begin with the simplest checks to avoid unnecessary complications. Start 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. Next, test the fan motor itself to ensure it is receiving power; if it’s not operational, it might need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Don’t overlook the wiring connected to the fan; damaged or loose connections can lead to malfunction. Finally, verify that your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can affect the fan's performance. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2018 Honda Fit?

When troubleshooting a non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Honda Fit, it's crucial 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 fail to operate even when power is supplied. Additionally, examine the fan blades for any signs of damage, as broken blades can significantly impair functionality. Another important component to assess is the temperature sensor; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any loose connections or damage, as these issues can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power to operate. Addressing these potential problems promptly is essential to maintain optimal engine cooling and prevent overheating.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Honda Fit to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Honda Fit, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it, the risk of overheating escalates significantly. An overheating engine can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs and extensive downtime. Moreover, neglecting this issue not only compromises the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency but also poses a safety risk, potentially leaving you stranded due to engine failure. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing this problem promptly is crucial; it not only protects your investment but also ensures your vehicle remains reliable and safe on the road. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is imperative to take action immediately to avoid the dire consequences of engine overheating.

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.