Jeep Compass Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your Jeep Compass 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 Jeep Compass 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 Jeep Compass 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Jeep Compass

When addressing radiator fan issues in your Jeep Compass, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the simplest components, such as the fuse for the radiator fan, as a blown fuse can easily prevent the fan from operating. If the fuse is intact, inspect the coolant levels; low coolant can lead to overheating and may indicate a leak or other underlying issues. Next, examine the thermostat for proper function, as a faulty thermostat can disrupt the cooling system's efficiency. If these initial checks do not resolve the problem, consider the fan motor itself, as a defective motor may require replacement. Additionally, using a scan tool to read any error codes, such as P0480, can provide insights into potential control circuit issues. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and address radiator fan problems, ensuring your Jeep Compass runs smoothly and maintains optimal engine temperature.

What to Check When the Radiator Fan Isn't Working in a Jeep Compass?

When diagnosing the issue of a non-functioning radiator fan in your Jeep Compass, it's crucial to explore several common problems that may be causing the malfunction. Begin by checking the coolant level, as low coolant can lead to overheating and prevent the fan from operating effectively. If the coolant level is adequate, the next step is to inspect the fuse related to the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a simple fix that can restore functionality. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, turn your attention to the fan assembly itself, as a defective fan may need repair or replacement. Additionally, assess the fan clutch, since a malfunctioning clutch can impede the fan's ability to engage properly. The coolant temperature sensor is another vital component; if it is faulty, it may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary. Finally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the fan's operation. By systematically evaluating these common issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan problem in your Jeep Compass, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Jeep Compass?

When the radiator fan in your Jeep Compass fails to operate, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious engine damage. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to overheating, which not only affects engine performance but can also result in costly repairs. Common culprits include a defective fan motor, issues with the fan relay, or problems with the coolant temperature sensor. Start your troubleshooting by checking the coolant level and inspecting the fuse, as these are often the simplest fixes. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, further investigation into the wiring and connections is necessary. For instance, applying voltage directly to the fan can help determine if the motor is functional. Additionally, if the fans do not activate even when the air conditioning is on, it’s essential to check the fan relays and the cooling fan module located behind the radiator. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to overheating, which poses a significant risk to your vehicle’s engine health. Therefore, taking immediate action to diagnose and repair the radiator fan issue is vital for maintaining the longevity and safety of your Jeep Compass.

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Jeep Compass Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Solutions