2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Addressing 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport Radiator Fan Issues for Engine Cooling

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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 Land Rover Discovery Sport 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 Land Rover Discovery Sport 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 initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can prevent the fan from operating. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to function. Following this, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; a malfunctioning motor may require replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can also impede performance. Finally, utilizing a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can provide deeper insights into any underlying issues affecting the fan system. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan problem, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it directly impacts the fan's ability to cool the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. The temperature sensor also plays a critical role; if it fails, it may not signal the fan to activate when the engine requires cooling. Wiring issues, such as loose connections or frayed wires, can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan's operation. Furthermore, low coolant levels can hinder the fan's efficiency, as the fan relies on adequate coolant to regulate engine temperature. Lastly, a malfunctioning fan relay may prevent the fan from receiving the power it needs to operate. By systematically checking these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan problem in their vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport?

When considering the urgency of repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport, it is essential to recognize the critical role this component plays in maintaining engine temperature. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses significant risks such as warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, ultimately resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The cascading effects of overheating can also compromise other engine components, leading to a broader range of mechanical issues. Therefore, addressing the repair promptly is not just a matter of convenience; it is vital for ensuring the vehicle's reliability and safety. Ignoring this issue can diminish the overall performance and longevity of the vehicle, making it imperative for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to avoid more extensive damage and maintain optimal engine health.

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