2008 Honda Odyssey Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2008 Honda Odyssey 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 2008 Honda Odyssey 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 2008 Honda Odyssey 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 2008 Honda Odyssey?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in your 2008 Honda Odyssey, it's crucial to follow a methodical approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before delving into more complex issues. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a frequent culprit and can be easily replaced with one of the same size and type. If the new fuse fails again, this may indicate an excessive electrical draw that warrants further investigation. Next, check the radiator fan relay located in the under-hood fuse/relay box, as this component is often responsible for fan operation failures. It's also important to consider specific operational conditions, such as the fan not receiving power when the temperature is below 199°F and the AC is engaged. Lastly, examine the wiring, particularly the blue wire linked to the condenser fan relay and the radiator fan motor, as any damage or disconnection in this wiring can hinder the fan's performance. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issues with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2008 Honda Odyssey?

When dealing with a radiator fan that has stopped working in a 2008 Honda Odyssey, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can fail to spin and thus prevent the engine from cooling effectively. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt the power supply, leading to a complete shutdown of the fan. Inspecting the fan blades is also crucial, as any damage or breakage can hinder air circulation. Another potential issue is a faulty temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature, resulting in overheating. Lastly, a worn-out relay can interrupt the electrical signal necessary for the fan's operation. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can identify and address the root cause of the radiator fan's malfunction, ensuring the vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2008 Honda Odyssey?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2008 Honda Odyssey, 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 increases significantly. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs that far exceed the expense of a simple fan replacement. Additionally, a malfunctioning fan can impact other systems in the vehicle, such as the air conditioning, further complicating the issue. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing this problem promptly is crucial not only for the longevity of the vehicle but also for ensuring safe driving conditions. Ignoring the signs of a failing radiator fan can lead to extensive damage and financial strain, making it imperative to take action as soon as possible.

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