2015 Mazda 6 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2015 Mazda 6 and How to Fix It

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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 2015 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 2015 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 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2015 Mazda 6?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Mazda 6, 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. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a faulty relay can disrupt the fan's operation and may need replacement. Next, test the fan motor itself by applying direct power to it; if the motor fails to spin, it likely requires replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which signals the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; a malfunctioning sensor can prevent the fan from turning on. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as faulty wiring can impede power delivery to the fan. Finally, consider using a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes that may provide insights into specific issues affecting the fan system. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan problem in your Mazda 6, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2015 Mazda 6?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2015 Mazda 6 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to spin and thus fail to cool the engine effectively. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, rendering the fan inoperative. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches its optimal temperature, leading to overheating. Physical damage to the fan blades can also hinder performance, as broken or bent blades will disrupt airflow. Lastly, wiring issues, such as frayed or disconnected wires, can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power to function. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to avoid engine overheating and further damage, making it advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and repair.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Mazda 6 to prevent overheating and potential engine damage?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Mazda 6 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature; without it, the risk of overheating significantly increases. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warping or cracking of engine components, which can result in costly repairs or even a complete engine replacement. Additionally, prolonged overheating can affect other critical parts such as the water pump and thermostat, compounding the problem and escalating repair costs. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan immediately. Seeking professional assistance for diagnosis and repair not only safeguards the engine's integrity but also ensures the vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Ignoring this issue can lead to dire consequences, making prompt action essential for any Mazda 6 owner.

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2015 Mazda 6 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs