2018 INFINITI QX60 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2018 INFINITI QX60 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 2018 INFINITI QX60 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 QX60 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 2018 INFINITI QX60?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 INFINITI QX60, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. 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 that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to operate. Following this, test the radiator fan motor itself to confirm it is working correctly, as a defective motor will require replacement. Additionally, ensure that the temperature sensor is functioning properly, as it is responsible for activating the fan based on engine temperature. Finally, examine the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or looseness, as these can significantly impede the fan's performance. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 INFINITI QX60?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 INFINITI QX60, 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 impacts the fan's ability to cool the radiator. If the motor is defective, it will need to be replaced to restore functionality. Additionally, a blown fuse can prevent the fan from receiving power, so checking the fuse box for any damaged fuses is a crucial step in the diagnostic process. Another potential issue is a faulty temperature sensor, which plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine temperature rises. If this sensor malfunctions, it may fail to trigger the fan, leading to overheating. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, making it inoperable. Lastly, ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can affect the fan's operation. By systematically examining these common causes, DIYers can effectively identify and address the radiator fan issue, helping to prevent engine overheating and maintain the vehicle's performance.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2018 INFINITI QX60 to avoid engine damage?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2018 INFINITI QX60, urgency is key. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which poses significant risks not only to the engine's integrity but also to your vehicle's overall performance. If the fan fails to operate, the engine may reach dangerously high temperatures, resulting in warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, both of which can lead to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, driving with a non-working fan places additional strain on the engine and other cooling components, exacerbating the problem and inflating repair costs. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and repair the radiator fan as soon as possible. By addressing this issue promptly, you can safeguard your engine's health and avoid the financial burden of extensive repairs down the line.

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2018 INFINITI QX60 Radiator Fan Issues & Solutions