1999 Hyundai Elantra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 1999 Hyundai Elantra: Causes and Solutions

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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 1999 Hyundai Elantra 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 1999 Hyundai Elantra 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 1999 Hyundai Elantra?

To effectively diagnose a non-working radiator fan in your 1999 Hyundai Elantra, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the coolant temperature sensor, as a malfunctioning sensor can prevent the fan from activating even when the engine is hot. Next, inspect the relays associated with the fan; swapping them with similar relays or testing them with a multimeter can reveal if they are functioning correctly. Don’t forget to check the fuses in the fuse box, as a blown fuse can halt the fan's operation entirely. If these components check out, proceed to test the fan motor directly by supplying power to it, which will help determine if the motor itself is faulty. Additionally, inspect the wiring and electrical connections for any breaks or corrosion that could disrupt the circuit. If the fan operates only when the AC is on, this may indicate issues with the temperature sensor or relay. Utilizing diagnostic tools to check for trouble codes can also provide valuable insights into the problem. If immediate repairs are not possible, temporarily grounding the relays can keep the fan running, but this should only be a short-term solution. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can identify the root cause of the radiator fan issue and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 1999 Hyundai Elantra?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan in a 1999 Hyundai Elantra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could lead to its failure. One of the first things to check is the fuse, as a blown fuse can easily disrupt the power supply to the fan. Additionally, the coolant temperature sensor is critical for signaling the engine control unit to activate the fan; if this sensor is malfunctioning, the fan may not turn on when needed. Another potential culprit is the fan relay, which can wear out over time and prevent the fan from receiving power. Wiring issues, such as broken or corroded connections, can also hinder the fan's operation, making it vital to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Furthermore, low coolant levels can affect the engine's temperature readings, leading to fan malfunction, so maintaining proper coolant levels is crucial. If all else checks out, the radiator fan motor itself may be faulty, and a direct battery test can help determine its functionality. Lastly, consider the fan controller module, which can fail due to environmental factors, and ensure that the entire cooling system, including the thermostat, is functioning correctly to prevent overheating. By systematically addressing these common issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the radiator fan problems in your Elantra.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 1999 Hyundai Elantra to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in a 1999 Hyundai Elantra is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan plays a crucial role in regulating engine temperature, and when it fails, the risk of engine overheating escalates significantly. Overheating can lead to severe consequences, including damage to the engine components such as the head gasket and radiator, which can result in costly repairs. If you notice that your fan is not operating, it is essential to act quickly. Start by checking the fuses and relays, as these are common culprits in fan failures. Additionally, testing the coolant temperature sensor can help determine if it is functioning correctly, as a faulty sensor may prevent the fan from activating. While temporary fixes, like manually grounding the fan relay, can provide a short-term solution, they are not advisable for long-term use due to the risk of running the engine too cool or causing further complications. By addressing the radiator fan issue promptly, you can prevent the cascading effects of overheating and ensure the longevity of your vehicle's engine.

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