2016 Hyundai Tucson Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2016 Hyundai Tucson and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2016 Hyundai Tucson 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 cause the engine cooling fan to operate improperly, leading to overheating or inadequate engine cooling.
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 2016 Hyundai Tucson 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

When diagnosing the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2016 Hyundai Tucson, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the coolant level in the radiator system, as low coolant can prevent the fan from operating effectively. Next, examine the fuse associated with the fan; a burnt-out fuse is a straightforward fix that can restore functionality. If the fuse is intact, move on to the relay that controls the fan, ensuring it is working correctly, as a faulty relay can disrupt the fan's operation. Additionally, assess the condition of the fan motor itself; if it shows signs of wear or damage, it may need replacement. Finally, troubleshoot the thermostat, as a malfunctioning thermostat can also impact the fan's performance. By following this logical sequence, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the issue and take appropriate action to restore your radiator fan's functionality.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 2016 Hyundai Tucson to prevent overheating?

Fixing the radiator fan in your 2016 Hyundai Tucson is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and any malfunction can lead to severe overheating issues. If the fan fails to operate correctly, the engine may not receive adequate cooling, causing the temperature gauge to rise dangerously high. This overheating can result in significant engine damage, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Additionally, signs such as an overheated engine, decreased coolant levels, or unusual puddles under your vehicle indicate that the radiator fan may be failing. Addressing these symptoms promptly is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle, making it imperative to fix the radiator fan as soon as possible to prevent overheating and protect your engine from potential harm.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2016 Hyundai Tucson?

When facing a non-working radiator fan in your 2016 Hyundai Tucson, it's crucial to understand the 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 interrupt the electrical flow, preventing the fan from operating. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay, as a faulty relay can also disrupt the fan's functionality. Additionally, examine the wiring for any breaks or damage, as a broken wire can lead to a complete failure of the fan system. Lastly, consider the coolant temperature sensor; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it may not signal the fan to activate, resulting in overheating issues. By systematically checking these components, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to restore your radiator fan's operation, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

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