2022 Kia K5 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2022 Kia K5 and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2022 Kia K5 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 2022 Kia K5 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 2022 Kia K5?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2022 Kia K5, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking 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, inspect the relay, as it controls the power supply 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, the motor itself may be defective and in need of replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. A faulty sensor can prevent the fan from turning on. Don’t forget to inspect all wiring and connections for any signs of damage or disconnection, as these can impede power delivery to the fan. Finally, using a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can provide insights into any underlying issues within the cooling system. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2022 Kia K5?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in your 2022 Kia K5 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it can fail to spin, leading to overheating. Additionally, check for a blown fuse in the fan circuit, which can interrupt the power supply and prevent the fan from operating. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor that may not signal the fan to activate when necessary, resulting in insufficient cooling. Inspecting the fan blades for damage is also important, as broken blades can hinder airflow and cooling efficiency. Furthermore, wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection to the fan, while a coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat, affecting the fan's performance. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to maintain your vehicle's cooling system and prevent engine damage.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2022 Kia K5 to avoid engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in your 2022 Kia K5 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including blown head gaskets and damaged pistons. Additionally, overheating can compromise the integrity of engine oil and coolant, leading to further complications and costly repairs. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan not only increases the likelihood of engine failure but also poses safety risks while driving. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and repair the issue promptly, either by consulting a qualified mechanic or, if you are a DIY enthusiast, by following proper troubleshooting steps to ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

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