Isuzu VehiCROSS Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Isuzu VehiCROSS 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 Isuzu VehiCROSS 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 VehiCROSS 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 VehiCROSS

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Isuzu VehiCROSS, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex assessments. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse can often be the culprit behind fan failure. If the fuse is intact, inspect the fan itself for any visible damage or wear that could hinder its operation. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner can provide valuable trouble codes that may indicate specific problems within the cooling system. If the fan appears to be in good condition, test the cooling fan motor by applying power directly to it, which will help determine if the motor is functioning properly or needs replacement. Additionally, ensure that the fan blades are free from obstructions by manually spinning them and clearing any debris. Finally, monitor the engine and radiator temperatures to identify any irregularities that could signal deeper issues within the cooling system. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve radiator fan issues, ensuring your vehicle operates smoothly.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in an Isuzu VehiCROSS

When dealing with radiator fan issues in your Isuzu VehiCROSS, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. One frequent issue is a blown fuse, which can indicate an electrical short or excessive draw from the fan motor. If the fuse is intact but the fan isn't operating, the motor itself may be faulty, requiring a direct power test to confirm its functionality. Additionally, physical obstructions can hinder the fan's operation; debris or damage to the fan blades can prevent proper airflow, leading to overheating. It's also important to consider the cooling system's overall health, as a malfunctioning temperature gauge or sender can mislead you about the engine's actual temperature, complicating the diagnosis. By being aware of these common failure modes, you can systematically troubleshoot and address radiator fan issues, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

What to Do When the Radiator Fan Isn't Working in an Isuzu VehiCROSS?

When the radiator fan in your Isuzu VehiCROSS isn't functioning properly, it's crucial to address the problem promptly to avoid serious engine damage or safety hazards. A malfunctioning fan can lead to overheating, which not only affects engine performance but can also result in costly repairs if left unchecked. Start by checking the fuse; a blown fuse may indicate an electrical issue that needs immediate attention. Next, inspect the fan for any visible damage or obstructions that could hinder its operation. If the fan appears intact, consider troubleshooting the wiring system, as faulty connections can disrupt functionality. Additionally, testing the cooling fan motor with a diagnostic scanner can help identify any underlying issues. Remember, driving with an overheating engine can exacerbate the problem, so it's best to resolve the fan issue before hitting the road again. Taking these steps not only ensures your vehicle runs smoothly but also safeguards against potential safety risks associated with overheating.

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Isuzu VehiCROSS Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Solutions