2011 INFINITI M56 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Working Radiator Fan in Your 2011 INFINITI M56

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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 2011 INFINITI M56 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 2011 INFINITI M56 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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2011 INFINITI M56?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2011 INFINITI M56, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. Next, inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from activating. If these components are functioning correctly, proceed to test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it operates as intended; if it doesn’t, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the fan's functionality. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide further insights into any underlying issues. Finally, confirm that the coolant levels in the radiator are adequate, as low levels can lead to overheating and impact the fan's performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2011 INFINITI M56?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issue in a 2011 INFINITI M56, 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 for 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 often 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 operate improperly; ensuring that the coolant is at the correct level is vital for the fan's performance. 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 2011 INFINITI M56 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2011 INFINITI M56 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets. Such issues not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Moreover, prolonged overheating can lead to complete engine failure, posing a significant safety risk while driving. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning radiator fan promptly is crucial to ensure the vehicle operates efficiently and to safeguard against the financial burden of extensive repairs. Taking action now can help maintain the longevity of your vehicle and prevent dangerous situations on the road.

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