2018 Honda HR-V Radiator Fan Isn't Working

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

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 HR-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 2018 Honda HR-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-functioning radiator fan in my 2018 Honda HR-V?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Honda HR-V, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. 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, as it plays a crucial role in supplying power to the fan. A malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from activating, so testing its functionality is essential. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if the motor fails to run, it may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which signals the fan to turn on at specific engine temperatures; a faulty sensor can disrupt this process. Don’t forget to inspect all wiring and connections for any signs of damage, as faulty wiring can also impede fan operation. Finally, using an OBD-II scanner to check for diagnostic trouble codes can provide further insights into any underlying issues within the cooling system. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can identify and address the problem with your radiator fan effectively.

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

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2018 Honda HR-V 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 not signal the fan to activate when necessary. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any issues, as damaged or loose connections can also lead to fan failure. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial to prevent engine overheating and ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Honda HR-V to avoid engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in your 2018 Honda HR-V 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. If this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's integrity but can also result in costly repairs and extensive downtime. Moreover, an overheating engine can cause other components in the engine bay to fail, further complicating the situation and increasing the likelihood of a breakdown. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan immediately to ensure your vehicle operates within the safe temperature range and to safeguard against long-term damage. Taking prompt action will help maintain the overall health of your Honda HR-V and prevent more significant issues down the line.

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Troubleshooting 2018 Honda HR-V Radiator Fan Problems