2018 INFINITI Q60 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2018 INFINITI Q60 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 2018 INFINITI Q60 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 2018 INFINITI Q60 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 2018 INFINITI Q60?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 INFINITI Q60, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more intricate assessments. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, inspect the relay, as it plays a crucial role in supplying power to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may need replacement. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, this indicates that the motor itself may require replacement. Additionally, verify the functionality of the temperature sensor, which is responsible for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. If all these components check out, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt the fan's operation. Finally, consider using an OBD-II scanner to identify any error codes related to the cooling system, which can provide further insights into the underlying issue. By following this structured approach, you can systematically diagnose the problem and determine the necessary repairs for your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 INFINITI Q60?

When diagnosing the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 INFINITI Q60, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it directly affects the fan's ability to cool the radiator. If the motor is defective, the fan will fail to operate, leading to potential overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. It's also crucial to check the temperature sensor, which plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; a malfunctioning sensor may fail to trigger the fan when needed. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can further complicate matters by preventing electrical flow to the fan. Lastly, low coolant levels can impact the fan's operation, as the system relies on adequate coolant to regulate engine temperature effectively. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan problem in your vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in my 2018 INFINITI Q60?

Addressing the issue of a non-working radiator fan in your 2018 INFINITI Q60 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing safety concern that requires immediate attention. The radiator fan is essential for regulating engine temperature, and when it fails, the risk of engine overheating escalates significantly. Overheating can lead to severe damage, including a blown head gasket or even complete engine failure, both of which can incur hefty repair costs and compromise your vehicle's reliability. Moreover, neglecting this issue can adversely affect your car's overall performance and fuel efficiency, making it less enjoyable to drive. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, such as unusual engine temperatures or strange noises, it is crucial to take action promptly. By addressing this problem quickly, you can avoid more extensive damage and ensure your INFINITI Q60 operates smoothly and safely.

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2018 INFINITI Q60 Radiator Fan Problems & Solutions