Isuzu Hombre Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Isuzu Hombre and How to Fix It

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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 Isuzu Hombre 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 Isuzu Hombre 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in an Isuzu Hombre

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Isuzu Hombre, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuses associated with the electric radiator fans, as a blown fuse can often be the simplest explanation for fan failure. If you find any blown fuses, replace them and observe if the new ones blow again, which could indicate a deeper issue such as a blockage in the fan blades. Next, utilize a diagnostic scanner to retrieve any trouble codes that may provide insight into the cooling fan system's performance. This step is crucial for pinpointing the exact nature of the problem. After that, test the cooling fan motor by applying power directly to it; this will help you determine if the motor is operational. Additionally, using an infrared temperature gun to check for cold spots on the radiator can reveal areas that are not receiving adequate cooling, further guiding your troubleshooting efforts. Finally, inspect the relays in the fuse panel related to the cooling system, as faulty relays can disrupt fan operation. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address radiator fan issues in your Isuzu Hombre, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal working condition.

How to Diagnose a Non-Working Radiator Fan in an Isuzu Hombre?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in your Isuzu Hombre, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One frequent issue is a blown fuse, which can easily be checked and replaced if necessary. If the fuse continues to blow, it may indicate a deeper electrical problem, such as a short circuit or excessive draw from the fan motor. Additionally, the physical condition of the fan itself is crucial; any visible damage or wear can prevent it from operating correctly. It's also important to inspect for any obstructions that may hinder the fan blades from spinning freely. Debris or foreign objects can block the fan's movement, leading to overheating issues. By being aware of these common failure modes, you can systematically troubleshoot and resolve the problem, ensuring your radiator fan operates efficiently and keeps your engine cool.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in an Isuzu Hombre?

When the radiator fan in your Isuzu Hombre is not functioning, it is crucial to address the issue without delay. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health and overall vehicle performance. Ignoring symptoms such as the fan not turning on, unusual engine temperatures, or warning lights can result in costly repairs and even complete engine failure. Common culprits behind this problem include a faulty fan motor, blown fuses, or issues with the coolant temperature sensor. Additionally, wiring damage or a malfunctioning ECM can exacerbate the situation. To ensure your vehicle remains safe and operational, it is essential to diagnose and resolve these issues promptly, as the consequences of inaction can be severe, affecting both your safety on the road and the longevity of your vehicle.

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