2019 INFINITI QX80 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2019 INFINITI QX80 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 2019 INFINITI QX80 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 2019 INFINITI QX80 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2019 INFINITI QX80?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 INFINITI QX80, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay, which controls the 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, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, verify the functionality of the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Lastly, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections that could hinder the fan's operation. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a mechanic or dealership for professional assistance is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2019 INFINITI QX80?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 INFINITI QX80, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from spinning and effectively cooling the engine. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt the power supply, leading to a complete shutdown of the fan. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor; if this sensor fails, it may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Physical damage, such as broken fan blades, can also hinder the fan's performance, while wiring issues may prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power or signals to operate. By identifying these common problems, DIYers can take the necessary steps to troubleshoot and repair the radiator fan, ensuring optimal engine performance and preventing overheating. Regular maintenance and inspections are key to catching these issues early, allowing for timely interventions that can save both time and money.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 INFINITI QX80?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2019 INFINITI QX80, addressing any malfunction should be a top priority. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and a failure to operate can lead to severe overheating. This overheating can result in catastrophic engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which are costly repairs that can be easily avoided with prompt attention. Additionally, driving with a faulty fan places undue stress on other components of the cooling system, potentially leading to a cascade of failures that could escalate repair costs significantly. Therefore, if you notice that your radiator fan is not functioning, it is crucial to have it inspected and repaired immediately. Taking swift action not only protects your engine but also ensures the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

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2019 INFINITI QX80 Radiator Fan Issues & Solutions