2016 Mazda 6 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2016 Mazda 6 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 2016 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 2016 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2016 Mazda 6?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2016 Mazda 6, 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 controls the power supply to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may require replacement. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor itself may need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Ensure that the wiring connected to the fan is intact, looking for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt functionality. Finally, utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for any diagnostic trouble codes that may provide further insight into the cooling system's issues. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the radiator fan's failure and determine the necessary repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2016 Mazda 6?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan in a 2016 Mazda 6, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to its failure. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it can prevent the fan from spinning and result in engine overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt the power supply, causing the fan to stop functioning altogether. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches high temperatures, leading to inadequate cooling. It's also important to check for broken fan blades, as any damage can hinder the fan's performance and contribute to overheating. Lastly, wiring issues can create connectivity problems between the fan and the vehicle's electrical system, further complicating the fan's operation. By identifying and addressing these common issues, you can ensure that your radiator fan operates effectively, helping to maintain your engine's optimal temperature and prevent overheating.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2016 Mazda 6 to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the non-working radiator fan in your 2016 Mazda 6 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool. When the fan fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. These repairs can be costly and time-consuming, making it imperative to act quickly. Additionally, prolonged overheating can compromise the vehicle's overall performance and efficiency, leading to further complications down the line. By prioritizing the repair of the radiator fan, you not only safeguard your engine from potential failure but also maintain the reliability and longevity of your vehicle. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to prevent serious consequences.

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