2018 Lexus NX300h Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2018 Lexus NX300h and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 Lexus NX300h 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 Lexus NX300h 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

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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2018 Lexus NX300h?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Lexus NX300h, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. Next, inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to operate. If these components are functioning correctly, proceed to test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is not defective. Additionally, verify the temperature sensor's operation, as a faulty sensor may fail to signal the fan to activate when needed. Finally, examine the wiring connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, as poor connections can significantly impede the fan's performance. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal working condition.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 Lexus NX300h?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2018 Lexus NX300h is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, 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. Another critical component to examine is the temperature sensor; if it fails to send accurate signals, the fan may not activate when necessary. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also prevent the fan from receiving power. Furthermore, low coolant levels can inhibit the fan's operation, as it relies on adequate coolant to regulate engine temperature. Lastly, a malfunctioning fan relay may fail to trigger the fan when needed. By systematically checking these potential issues, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problem with the radiator fan in your Lexus NX300h.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Lexus NX300h?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Lexus NX300h, the urgency to address this issue cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it, the risk of overheating increases significantly. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs. Additionally, a malfunctioning fan can compromise your vehicle's overall performance and fuel efficiency, as the engine struggles to operate under elevated temperatures. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect and repair the radiator fan as soon as possible. Ignoring this problem not only jeopardizes the engine's health but also poses safety risks while driving. Taking prompt action ensures that your Lexus NX300h remains reliable and safe on the road, preventing minor issues from escalating into major, expensive repairs.

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