2014 Jeep Cherokee Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2014 Jeep Cherokee and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
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 2014 Jeep Cherokee 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 2014 Jeep Cherokee 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2014 Jeep Cherokee?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2014 Jeep Cherokee, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the relay, which is crucial for controlling power to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may require replacement. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, this indicates that the motor itself may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Ensure that this component is functioning correctly. Don’t overlook the wiring; inspect for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt the fan's operation. Finally, utilize a diagnostic scanner to check for any error codes related to the cooling system, which can provide further insights into the underlying issue. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the cause of the radiator fan's malfunction and determine the necessary repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2014 Jeep Cherokee?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issues in a 2014 Jeep Cherokee, it's essential to understand the common problems that may lead to its failure. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as a malfunctioning motor will prevent the fan from spinning and adequately cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt 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 as intended. The coolant temperature sensor is also critical, as it regulates the fan's operation based on engine temperature; a malfunction here can lead to overheating if the fan does not activate when needed. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can impede the electrical flow to the fan, causing it to stop working. By identifying and addressing these common problems, you can ensure that your radiator fan operates effectively, helping to maintain optimal engine performance and prevent overheating.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Jeep Cherokee to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Jeep Cherokee is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator receives adequate airflow for cooling. When this component fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads, damaged head gaskets, and even complete engine failure. Additionally, an overheating engine can result in a loss of power and increased fuel consumption, creating further complications for the driver. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan not only jeopardizes the vehicle's performance but also poses safety risks, as an unexpected breakdown can occur at any moment. Therefore, it is crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent costly repairs and ensure the safe operation of your Jeep Cherokee on the road. Taking immediate action will help maintain the vehicle's health and longevity, allowing for a smoother and safer driving experience.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.