Jeep Renegade Radiator Fan Isn't Working

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

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Jeep Renegade, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is often a straightforward fix that can restore functionality. If the fuse is intact, inspect the fan assembly for any visible damage, such as a malfunctioning motor or broken components. Next, test the cooling fan resistor, as a failure here can prevent the fan from operating at low speeds, causing it to only engage at higher temperatures. Additionally, examine the relays and fuses responsible for both high and low-speed operations, ensuring that each component is functioning correctly. Lastly, consider the coolant temperature sensor, as a malfunction can disrupt the fan's operation. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve radiator fan issues, ensuring your Jeep Renegade runs smoothly.

What Are the Common Problems Causing a Non-Working Radiator Fan in a Jeep Renegade?

When dealing with a non-working radiator fan in a Jeep Renegade, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fan assembly itself, which may have failed or become damaged over time. Additionally, the fan clutch can also malfunction, preventing the fan from engaging when needed. Another critical component to check is the coolant temperature sensor; if it’s faulty, it may not signal the fan to turn on, leading to overheating issues. It's also wise to inspect the fuse related to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse can disrupt the fan's operation entirely. If the fuse continues to blow, this could indicate underlying issues with the wiring harness, which may require further investigation. Mechanical failures, such as the fan breaking off its motor or excessive friction due to inadequate lubrication, can also hinder the fan's performance. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring their Jeep Renegade runs smoothly and efficiently.

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

When the radiator fan in your Jeep Renegade fails to operate, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to overheating, which poses serious risks not only to your vehicle's engine but also to your safety on the road. Overheating can cause significant engine damage, resulting in costly repairs and potentially leaving you stranded. Start by checking the coolant level and inspecting the fuse, as these are simple fixes that can often resolve the problem. If these initial checks do not yield results, further investigation into the fan assembly, fan clutch, or coolant temperature sensor may be necessary. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe complications, so it’s essential to act quickly to maintain your Jeep's cooling system and ensure safe driving conditions.

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