1999 Land Rover Discovery Radiator Fan Not Working

Troubleshooting the Radiator Fan Issues in Your 1999 Land Rover Discovery: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 1999 Land Rover Discovery 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 1999 Land Rover Discovery 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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 1999 Land Rover Discovery?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 1999 Land Rover Discovery, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse can often be a straightforward fix but may also indicate underlying electrical issues. Next, examine the relay, as it controls the power supply to the fan; if it's damaged, replacing it could resolve the problem. The coolant temperature sensor is another critical component to check, as it signals the fan to activate based on engine temperature. Use an ohm meter to assess its resistance and ensure it’s functioning correctly. Following this, inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these can disrupt the electrical flow. If all electrical components appear operational, the fan motor itself may be at fault; manually turning the blades can help determine if it’s seized. Additionally, check the fan control module for any signs of failure, as it plays a vital role in sending signals to the fan. Lastly, ensure that coolant levels are adequate, as low levels can affect the fan's operation. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 1999 Land Rover Discovery?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 1999 Land Rover Discovery, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A blown fuse is often the first culprit to check, as it protects the fan's electrical circuit; if it's blown, replacing it may resolve the issue, but repeated failures could signal deeper wiring or relay problems. The fan motor itself can also fail, so manually testing the fan blades for movement can help determine if the motor is seized. Additionally, the cooling fan relay, which is responsible for sending power to the fan, may be faulty, preventing it from receiving the necessary signal to operate. Another critical component is the coolant temperature switch, which can malfunction and stop the fan from turning on when needed. Wiring issues, such as shorts or damaged connections, can further complicate matters, so inspecting the electrical system is vital. For vehicles equipped with a clutch fan, problems with the fan clutch or bearings can hinder performance as well. Lastly, it's important to remember that the fan operates under specific conditions, such as engine temperature and outside air temperature, so it may not activate until those thresholds are met. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in their Land Rover Discovery.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 1999 Land Rover Discovery to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 1999 Land Rover Discovery is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by facilitating airflow through the radiator, which cools the coolant circulating through the engine. When this fan fails, the risk of engine overheating escalates dramatically, potentially leading to catastrophic damage such as a blown head gasket or a cracked engine block. The consequences of neglecting this issue can be both severe and costly, making it imperative to act quickly. Diagnosing the problem is the first step; common issues include a seized fan motor, blown fuses, or faulty relays. By checking these components, you can determine the root cause of the failure and take the necessary steps to restore functionality. Addressing the radiator fan issue promptly not only protects your engine from overheating but also ensures the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

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1999 Land Rover Discovery Radiator Fan Issues & Repairs