2006 INFINITI M35 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2006 INFINITI M35: Causes and Solutions

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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 2006 INFINITI M35 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 2006 INFINITI M35 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 initial steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2006 INFINITI M35?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a 2006 INFINITI M35, it's crucial to follow a methodical approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Begin by examining the fuse linked to the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a frequent culprit that can easily be replaced. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay responsible for controlling the fan, as a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from activating. Should these components check out, proceed to test the radiator fan motor itself, since a defective motor will need to be replaced to restore functionality. Additionally, assess the temperature sensor, which is vital for signaling the fan to turn on; if this sensor is faulty, it may not trigger the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these issues can significantly disrupt the fan's operation. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2006 INFINITI M35?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2006 INFINITI M35 is not functioning, 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 over time and may require replacement to restore proper operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power to the fan, so checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward step to take. 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 for any faults. Lastly, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may cause the radiator fan to operate improperly; ensuring that the coolant is at the correct level is vital for the system's overall function. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix the radiator fan issue in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2006 INFINITI M35 to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the issue of a non-working radiator fan in a 2006 INFINITI M35 is critical for maintaining engine health and preventing overheating. The radiator fan is essential for cooling the engine by ensuring that the radiator operates efficiently. When this fan fails, the engine's temperature can rise dangerously, leading to severe damage to key components such as the cylinder head gasket and pistons. This not only results in expensive repairs but can also lead to complete engine failure if the problem is ignored. Additionally, the risk of overheating increases significantly in heavy traffic or during hot weather, which can create safety hazards for drivers. Therefore, it is vital to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to ensure the vehicle's cooling system functions properly, safeguarding against costly repairs and enhancing overall driving safety. Taking immediate action can prevent further complications and keep your INFINITI M35 running smoothly.

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2006 INFINITI M35 Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Solutions