2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560

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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 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560, 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 malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it operates correctly, as a defective motor will prevent the fan from spinning. Additionally, verify the temperature sensor's functionality, since it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Don't overlook the wiring and connections; loose or damaged wires can significantly hinder the fan's performance. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide deeper insights into any underlying issues within the cooling system. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the problem with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal working condition.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power, so checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward first step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when needed; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also prevent the fan from working, making it crucial to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Lastly, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may cause the radiator fan to malfunction; ensuring that the coolant is at the proper level can help mitigate this risk. By systematically addressing these common causes, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in their vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560, urgency is key. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to your engine's health. Without the fan operating effectively, the engine struggles to dissipate heat, increasing the likelihood of critical damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. This not only jeopardizes the engine's performance but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Additionally, driving with a faulty fan places undue stress on other components of the cooling system, potentially leading to a cascade of failures that compromise your vehicle's reliability and safety. Therefore, addressing the issue of a non-working radiator fan should be a top priority for any DIY enthusiast, as it is essential for maintaining the overall functionality and longevity of your vehicle.

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2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 Radiator Fan Issues & Repairs