1998 Honda Passport Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 1998 Honda Passport 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 1998 Honda Passport 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 1998 Honda Passport 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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 1998 Honda Passport?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 1998 Honda Passport, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by examining 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 inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as faulty wiring can disrupt the fan's functionality. Lastly, verify the coolant levels in your vehicle, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect the fan's operation. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 1998 Honda Passport?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 1998 Honda Passport, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be causing the issue. One of the primary culprits is often the fan assembly itself, which may be damaged or worn out over time. Additionally, the fan clutch can fail, preventing the fan from engaging when needed. Another critical component to check is the coolant temperature sensor; if it malfunctions, it may not signal the fan to turn on, leading to overheating. Electrical issues are also prevalent; a blown fuse or a faulty relay can interrupt the power supply to the fan, while broken wires can create a disconnect in the circuit. Furthermore, low coolant levels can affect the system's ability to cool effectively, and a damaged fan can hinder performance. For those looking to troubleshoot, inspecting the temperature sender mounted on the radiator is a good starting point, as replacing it can often resolve the fan issue. Understanding these common problems can empower DIYers to effectively diagnose and address radiator fan malfunctions, ensuring their Honda Passport runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 1998 Honda Passport to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan in a 1998 Honda Passport is of utmost urgency due to the significant risks associated with engine overheating. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When this component fails, the engine may not receive the necessary cooling, leading to an increased risk of overheating. This overheating can result in severe damage to vital engine parts, including the cylinder head gasket, pistons, and cylinders, which can lead to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to ensure the vehicle's cooling system operates effectively, thereby safeguarding the engine's performance and longevity. Ignoring this issue not only jeopardizes the vehicle's reliability but also poses safety risks, making prompt attention to the radiator fan's functionality essential for any DIY enthusiast.

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