2015 Kia Soul Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2015 Kia Soul 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 2015 Kia Soul 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 2015 Kia Soul 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2015 Kia Soul?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Kia Soul, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by manually rotating the cooling fan to ensure it isn’t seized or obstructed, as this is a straightforward first step. Next, inspect the fuse box for a 40 amp fuse dedicated to the radiator cooling fan; if it’s blown, replacing it could resolve the issue. Following this, check the relays associated with the fan; swapping them with other relays can help identify if one is faulty. Ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low levels can prevent the fan from activating. Additionally, assess the coolant temperature sensor by disconnecting it while the engine runs; if the fan engages, the sensor may need replacement. Inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, and use a multimeter to verify that power is reaching the fan. Lastly, check for any air blockage around the radiator and clean it if necessary. If these steps do not yield results, advanced diagnostics with a multimeter may be required to pinpoint the issue further. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the radiator fan problem in your Kia Soul.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2015 Kia Soul?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Kia Soul, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A blown fuse is often the first culprit; check the fuse box for a 40-amp fuse that may need replacing. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to examine the relay, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Testing the relay by swapping it with a similar one can help determine if it's the source of the issue. Additionally, the coolant temperature sensor is crucial for fan operation; if it's malfunctioning, it may not signal the fan to turn on, so testing its resistance with a multimeter is advisable. Wiring problems, such as broken or corroded connections, can also disrupt power flow to the fan, so inspect the wiring thoroughly. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating and affect fan performance, so ensure your coolant is at the recommended level. If all else checks out, the radiator fan motor itself may be faulty; you can test it by connecting it directly to a power source. Lastly, consider the fan control module, which can fail due to environmental factors, and inspect all connections for corrosion or damage. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and repair the radiator fan in your Kia Soul.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Kia Soul to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Kia Soul is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning fan can lead to immediate overheating of the engine, which poses a significant risk of severe damage, including engine seizure and compromised components like the head gasket. The potential for costly repairs increases dramatically if the issue is neglected, as low coolant levels can exacerbate overheating and lead to further complications. It is crucial to act quickly; bypassing the fan relay to connect the fan directly to the battery can provide a temporary solution while you diagnose the underlying problem. Ignoring the symptoms can result in repeated overheating, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your engine and other vital parts. Therefore, addressing the radiator fan issue promptly is essential for maintaining the vehicle's safety and reliability, ensuring that you avoid the high costs associated with extensive engine damage.

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