2005 Mazda 6 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2005 Mazda 6 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 2005 Mazda 6 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 2005 Mazda 6 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 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 2005 Mazda 6?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2005 Mazda 6, 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 halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Next, test the fan motor itself to ensure it is receiving power; if it isn’t, the problem may lie in the wiring or the motor. Additionally, verify the functionality of the temperature sensor, which is crucial for activating the fan when needed. Lastly, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion, as compromised connections can lead to operational failures. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue, ensuring your Mazda 6 runs smoothly.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2005 Mazda 6?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2005 Mazda 6 has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit; if the motor fails, the fan will not spin, leading to inadequate cooling of the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative until the fuse is replaced. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature, resulting in overheating. Wiring issues, such as loose connections or frayed wires, can also disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan's operation. Lastly, low coolant levels can prevent the fan from engaging, as the system relies on adequate coolant to regulate engine temperature effectively. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and resolve the issue with the radiator fan in your Mazda 6.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2005 Mazda 6 to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2005 Mazda 6 is critical to maintaining engine health and preventing overheating. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat effectively. When this component fails, the risk of engine overheating increases significantly, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. These issues not only result in costly repairs but can also compromise the vehicle's overall performance and reliability. Ignoring the symptoms of a malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to engine failure, leaving you stranded and facing extensive repair bills. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently, safeguarding both your investment and your peace of mind on the road.

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