2000 Lincoln Town Car Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in a 2000 Lincoln Town Car

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2000 Lincoln Town Car 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 2000 Lincoln Town Car 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.

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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2000 Lincoln Town Car?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2000 Lincoln Town Car, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin 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 is responsible for supplying power to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may need replacement to restore functionality. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can prevent the fan from activating when needed. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt the fan's operation. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable for further diagnosis and repair. This methodical approach not only helps in identifying the problem efficiently but also empowers you to tackle the issue with confidence.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2000 Lincoln Town Car?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2000 Lincoln Town Car has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fan assembly itself, which may suffer from electrical issues or physical damage that prevents it from operating. Additionally, the fan clutch, responsible for engaging and disengaging the fan based on engine temperature, can malfunction, leading to inadequate cooling. Another critical component to examine is the coolant temperature sensor; if this sensor fails, it may not signal the fan to turn on when needed, resulting in overheating. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to ensure the vehicle remains in good working condition and to avoid more severe engine problems down the line.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2000 Lincoln Town Car to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2000 Lincoln Town Car is critical for maintaining engine health and preventing overheating. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator receives adequate airflow. When this component fails, the risk of engine overheating escalates significantly, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the importance of this repair is vital; neglecting the symptoms of a faulty radiator fan can lead to a cascade of engine problems, reduced fuel efficiency, and ultimately, a complete engine failure. Therefore, it is imperative to diagnose and fix any cooling system issues as soon as they arise to safeguard your vehicle's longevity and performance.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.