2019 Mazda CX-5 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Working Radiator Fan in Your 2019 Mazda CX-5

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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 2019 Mazda CX-5 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 2019 Mazda CX-5 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 steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 Mazda CX-5?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 Mazda CX-5, it’s essential to adopt a methodical approach that begins with the simplest checks before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common issue that can easily be resolved. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to examine the relay that controls the fan; a faulty relay can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power to operate. Following this, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if the motor does not activate, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is crucial for triggering the fan when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as any loose or frayed wires can disrupt the fan's operation. Finally, using a diagnostic tool to scan for any trouble codes can help identify specific issues within the fan system. By following this structured diagnostic process, you can efficiently pinpoint and resolve the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2019 Mazda CX-5?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in your 2019 Mazda CX-5 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common issues that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to spin, leading to engine overheating. Additionally, check for a blown fuse in the fan circuit, which can interrupt the power supply and halt fan operation. Another potential culprit is a defective temperature sensor that may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. It's also important to inspect the fan blades for any damage, as broken or bent blades can significantly reduce cooling efficiency. Lastly, wiring issues, such as frayed wires or loose connections, can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan. By systematically examining these areas, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to restore your radiator fan's functionality.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2019 Mazda CX-5 to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2019 Mazda CX-5, the urgency of addressing this issue cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool. If the fan fails, the engine is at a high risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including blown head gaskets and warped cylinder heads. These repairs can be incredibly costly and time-consuming, making it imperative to act quickly. Additionally, neglecting this problem can exacerbate the situation, especially during heavy driving conditions or in high temperatures, where the engine is already under stress. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, such as unusual noises or the engine temperature gauge rising, it is crucial to diagnose and repair the issue immediately. Taking prompt action not only protects your vehicle's engine but also saves you from potential financial burdens in the future.

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2019 Mazda CX-5 Radiator Fan Problems & Solutions | RepairPal