2018 Kia Soul Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2018 Kia Soul 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Kia Soul?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Kia Soul, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting 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 examine the relay, which 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 need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches the necessary temperature. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power flow to the fan. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 Kia Soul?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issue in a 2018 Kia Soul, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it directly affects the fan's ability to cool the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which is crucial for detecting engine heat and signaling the fan to activate. Wiring problems, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan's operation. Furthermore, low coolant levels can impact the fan's performance since the fan relies on coolant to help regulate engine temperature. Lastly, a failed fan relay may prevent the fan from receiving power altogether. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue in your Kia Soul.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in my 2018 Kia Soul to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in your 2018 Kia Soul is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by effectively dissipating heat from the radiator. When this component fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases, which can lead to severe damage to vital engine parts such as the head gasket, pistons, and cylinders. This type of damage not only incurs expensive repair costs but can also result in complete engine failure, leaving you with a hefty bill and a non-operational vehicle. Moreover, an overheating engine can seize while driving, creating a dangerous situation that could lead to accidents or breakdowns on the road. Additionally, neglecting this repair can adversely affect your vehicle's overall performance and fuel efficiency, as an overheated engine struggles to operate effectively. Therefore, it is crucial to address the issue of a non-working radiator fan promptly to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of your Kia Soul.

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2018 Kia Soul Radiator Fan Troubleshooting Guide | RepairPal