2015 Mini Cooper Radiator Fan Isn't Working

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

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 Mini Cooper 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 cause the engine cooling fan to operate improperly, leading to overheating or inadequate engine cooling.
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 Mini Cooper 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

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 a non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Mini Cooper?

To diagnose a non-working radiator fan in your 2015 Mini Cooper, start with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting the fan assembly for any visible damage or wear, as this can often be the root cause of the issue. Next, check the fuses related to the cooling system to ensure they are intact, as a blown fuse can prevent the fan from operating. If the fuses are fine, listen for the fan activation when you turn on the air conditioning; this can indicate whether the fan is receiving power. If the fan does not activate, use a multimeter to verify the resistance of the coolant temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can disrupt the fan's operation. Additionally, consult a wiring diagram for the Mini Cooper to trace any potential wiring issues or short circuits that may be affecting the fan circuit. If all else fails, consider the possibility of internal component wear or relay failure, which may require professional servicing or replacement of the fan motor. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2015 Mini Cooper?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Mini Cooper, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fan assembly itself, which may have failed due to wear and tear or electrical issues. Additionally, the fan clutch or the coolant temperature sensor could be malfunctioning, preventing the fan from activating when needed. It's also crucial to check the coolant level, as a low coolant condition can hinder the temperature sensor's ability to function correctly, leading to overheating. Wiring issues, particularly broken connections from the relay to the fan module, can also disrupt the fan's operation, especially under specific conditions like when the air conditioning is running. Lastly, keep in mind that electric radiator fans have a finite lifespan and may require replacement after years of service. By systematically evaluating these factors, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve radiator fan issues in their Mini Cooper.

How urgent is it to fix the radiator fan in a 2015 Mini Cooper to prevent overheating?

When it comes to the radiator fan in a 2015 Mini Cooper, the urgency of repairs cannot be overstated. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe overheating, which poses a significant risk to the engine's integrity and overall vehicle performance. If the fan fails to operate correctly, the engine may struggle to maintain optimal temperatures, especially during long drives or in high heat, leading to potential coolant leaks and further cooling system failures. Ignoring these symptoms can escalate into more serious issues, including engine damage that could require costly repairs. Given that electric radiator fans have a finite lifespan, regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential to ensure the cooling system functions effectively. Therefore, addressing any radiator fan issues immediately is crucial for safeguarding your Mini Cooper's engine and ensuring its longevity on the road.

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2015 Mini Cooper Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Repairs