Hyundai Tiburon Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Hyundai Tiburon 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 Hyundai Tiburon 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 Hyundai Tiburon 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.

When the radiator fans stop functioning properly, the engine temperature will rise. The spike in temperature will be highest when the vehicle is idling at a stop, but should subside once the vehicle begins moving again.

Additionally, the air conditioner typically won't blow as cold. This is because the air from the radiator fans also blows across the air conditioning condenser, so when the fans fail, both systems suffer.

You'll also usually see the check engine light and notice a drop in fuel economy. It's possible the fan will start making noise if it's failing, as well.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Hyundai Tiburon

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Hyundai Tiburon, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the cooling fan relays located in the ER box, as these components are crucial for fan operation. Ensure they are receiving power and that the contacts are functioning correctly. Next, inspect the fan motor and clutch, as these parts can often be the source of the problem. Testing the ground wire is also vital; a faulty ground can prevent the fan from operating. If the fan is unresponsive, check the fuse dedicated to the radiator fan to rule out any blown fuses. Additionally, unplugging the coolant temperature sensor while the engine is running can help determine if the sensor is faulty; if the fan activates upon disconnection, consider replacing the sensor. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, examine the wiring for any faults and consider potential electrical problems, especially if the fan only operates at low speed. Lastly, be aware of any blockages in the cooling system that could hinder coolant flow, as these can lead to overheating. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address radiator fan issues, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Hyundai Tiburon

When facing radiator fan issues in your Hyundai Tiburon, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first steps is to check the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse can easily disrupt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, the next logical step is to test the coolant temperature sensor. By unplugging the sensor while the engine is running, you can determine if the fan activates, indicating that the sensor may need replacement. If these initial checks do not yield results, inspecting the radiator fan relay is crucial, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Additionally, examining the wiring for any signs of damage or disconnection is vital, as compromised wiring can lead to operational failures. It's also important to monitor the fan's behavior, as it may only engage when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Lastly, ensure that the cooling fan relays in the engine relay box are functioning correctly, as malfunctioning relays can cause persistent issues. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve radiator fan issues in your Hyundai Tiburon.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Hyundai Tiburon?

When the radiator fan in your Hyundai Tiburon fails to operate, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid severe engine damage or overheating. Start by checking the coolant level, as low coolant can prevent the fan from functioning correctly. Next, inspect the fuses and relays associated with the fan; these components are often the culprits and are relatively easy to replace. If the fan is still unresponsive, consider examining the fan assembly, fan motor, and the coolant temperature sensor, as these parts can also contribute to fan failure. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to overheating, which not only risks engine integrity but can also pose safety hazards while driving. By taking the time to troubleshoot these components, you can potentially save yourself from costly repairs and ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.

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