2008 INFINITI EX35 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2008 INFINITI EX35 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 INFINITI EX35 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 INFINITI EX35 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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2008 INFINITI EX35?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2008 INFINITI EX35, it's crucial to follow a methodical approach that begins with the simplest potential issues. Start by checking the fuse related to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common problem that can easily be fixed. If the fuse is in good condition, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a faulty relay can prevent the fan from operating. After that, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is working properly, since a malfunctioning motor will need to be replaced. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which is essential for activating the fan; if this sensor is defective, it may not trigger the fan when needed. It's also important to check all wiring and connections for any signs of damage or looseness, as faulty wiring can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Finally, verify the coolant levels in the system, as low coolant can lead to overheating and may cause the fan to stop functioning. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issues with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2008 INFINITI EX35?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issues in a 2008 INFINITI EX35, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it can fail to operate altogether, necessitating a replacement to restore functionality. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power, so checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward first step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; replacing this sensor can resolve the problem. Wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also prevent the fan from receiving power, making it crucial to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Lastly, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may cause the radiator fan to malfunction; ensuring that the coolant is at the proper level is vital for the fan's operation. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2008 INFINITI EX35 to prevent overheating and potential engine damage?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2008 INFINITI EX35, urgency is key. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health. The fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat; without it, the engine can quickly reach dangerous temperatures, resulting in costly damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. Additionally, overheating can affect other components within the engine bay, leading to a cascade of performance issues that can compromise your vehicle's reliability. Ignoring the signs of a failing radiator fan not only increases the likelihood of a breakdown but can also result in expensive repairs and the inconvenience of being stranded. Therefore, if you notice that your radiator fan is not functioning, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to safeguard your engine and ensure the longevity of your vehicle. Taking prompt action can save you from significant headaches and expenses down the road.

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