2013 Lexus ES350 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2013 Lexus ES350 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 2013 Lexus ES350 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 2013 Lexus ES350 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 2013 Lexus ES350?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Lexus ES350, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay, which controls the power to the fan; a malfunctioning relay may need replacement. Next, test the fan motor by applying direct power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor itself may require replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can prevent the fan from activating when needed. Don’t overlook the wiring; inspect for any damage or loose connections that could disrupt power flow to the fan. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be time to consult a mechanic for a professional evaluation. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2013 Lexus ES350?

When diagnosing the reasons behind a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 Lexus ES350, it's important to explore several common issues that could be causing the problem. A faulty fan motor is often the first thing to check, as it can fail to operate, leading to potential overheating of the engine. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt the electrical supply, effectively cutting off power to the fan. Another critical component to inspect is the temperature sensor; if it malfunctions, it may not trigger the fan to turn on when the engine reaches high temperatures, resulting in inadequate cooling. Moreover, a broken or slipping fan belt can prevent the fan from spinning efficiently, further contributing to overheating concerns. Lastly, a coolant leak can compromise the engine's cooling system, which may also affect the radiator fan's performance due to insufficient coolant circulation. Timely identification and resolution of these issues are vital to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly and to avoid severe engine damage.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Lexus ES350 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Lexus ES350 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. If the fan fails, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only result in costly repairs but can also compromise the vehicle's performance and safety. An overheating engine may lead to unexpected breakdowns, increasing the risk of accidents on the road. Therefore, addressing any malfunction with the radiator fan promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's health and ensuring a safe driving experience. Taking immediate action can prevent extensive damage and prolong the life of your engine, making it a priority for any DIY enthusiast.

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2013 Lexus ES350 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs