2020 Kia K900 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2020 Kia K900 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 2020 Kia K900 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 2020 Kia K900 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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Kia K900?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2020 Kia K900, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by examining 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 inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Next, test the fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can impede power delivery. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide further insights into any underlying issues. Finally, verify the functionality of the coolant temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor may prevent the fan from activating when required. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2020 Kia K900?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Kia K900, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical circuit, preventing the fan from turning on; checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward fix. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Inspecting and replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Furthermore, wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can impede the fan's functionality, so a thorough inspection of the wiring is crucial. Lastly, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may cause the radiator fan to malfunction; ensuring that the coolant is at the proper level is vital for the fan's effective operation. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in your Kia K900.

How urgent is it to address the non-working radiator fan in a 2020 Kia K900?

When it comes to the non-working radiator fan in a 2020 Kia K900, the urgency of addressing this issue cannot be overstated. A malfunctioning radiator fan is a significant concern as it directly impacts the engine's cooling system. If the fan fails to operate, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. Such damage not only compromises the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs and leave you stranded. Moreover, neglecting this problem can affect other components of the cooling system, compounding the issue and leading to further complications. Therefore, it is essential to inspect and repair the radiator fan as soon as possible, either by consulting a qualified mechanic or, for those with DIY skills, by following proper troubleshooting steps. Taking swift action will help maintain the vehicle's reliability and prevent potential safety hazards on the road.

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Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in 2020 Kia K900