2023 INFINITI QX55 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2023 INFINITI QX55 and How to Fix It

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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 2023 INFINITI QX55 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 2023 INFINITI QX55 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 diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2023 INFINITI QX55?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2023 INFINITI QX55, it's crucial to approach the diagnosis methodically. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay, which is responsible for supplying power to the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the entire system. Following this, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is receiving power; if it isn’t, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, the temperature sensor should be examined, as it plays a vital role in activating the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Lastly, inspect the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can also prevent the fan from functioning properly. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the radiator fan issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2023 INFINITI QX55?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issues in a 2023 INFINITI QX55, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to its malfunction. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it directly affects the fan's ability to operate and cool the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. Another potential issue is a faulty relay, which is responsible for delivering power to the fan motor; if this component fails, the fan will not function. The coolant temperature sensor is also critical, as it signals when the fan should activate; a malfunction here can prevent the fan from turning on when necessary. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, causing it to fail. Lastly, low coolant levels can impact the fan's operation, as the system relies on adequate coolant to regulate engine temperature. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to avoid overheating and potential engine damage, so if you encounter problems with your radiator fan, consider consulting a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and resolution.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2023 INFINITI QX55?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2023 INFINITI QX55, urgency is key. A non-functioning radiator fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health. Without the fan's cooling action, the engine temperature can rise rapidly, resulting in warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, both of which can lead to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Additionally, neglecting this issue can strain other components of the cooling system, compounding the problem and increasing repair costs. Therefore, if you notice that your radiator fan is not operating, it is crucial to address the issue immediately. Taking prompt action not only safeguards your vehicle's performance but also ensures its longevity, making it a priority for any DIY enthusiast looking to maintain their INFINITI QX55 effectively.

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