Nissan 370Z Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your Nissan 370Z and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Nissan 370Z 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 Nissan 370Z 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Nissan 370Z

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in a Nissan 370Z, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler fixes before tackling more complex problems. Begin by inspecting the fuse and relay associated with the radiator fan, as these components are often the easiest to check and replace if faulty. Next, look for any visible damage or disconnections in the fan motor and wiring, as these can lead to operational failures. If you notice that the fans are either running continuously or not activating at all, it’s important to test the coolant temperature sensor, which is vital for regulating fan operation based on engine temperature. Conducting an auto active test can help determine whether the issue lies with the fan assembly or the sensor itself. Should these initial checks fail to resolve the issue, you may need to investigate further into the fan control module and the ECU, as these elements can significantly impact fan performance. Regular maintenance of the cooling system is essential, as it not only aids in early detection of potential issues but also enhances the overall efficiency and longevity of your vehicle. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve radiator fan problems, ensuring your Nissan 370Z operates smoothly.

What to Check When the Radiator Fan Isn't Working in a Nissan 370Z?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in your Nissan 370Z, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by inspecting the fuse box for any blown fuses, as this is a frequent culprit behind fan failures. Next, examine the wiring connected to the fan; damaged or loose connections can disrupt power flow and prevent the fan from operating. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is vital for detecting engine heat and triggering the fan. If the sensor is faulty, it may not signal the fan to turn on when needed. Another component to assess is the fan clutch, as its failure can hinder the fan's performance. The thermo switch also plays a critical role in activating the fan, so ensure it is functioning correctly. Lastly, don't overlook the fan motors themselves; testing them directly can reveal if they are the source of the issue. By methodically evaluating these components, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the radiator fan problem in your Nissan 370Z, ensuring optimal engine cooling and performance.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Nissan 370Z?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in your Nissan 370Z, it is crucial to act swiftly to prevent serious engine damage. The radiator fan plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature, and if it fails, your engine may overheat, leading to costly repairs. Common culprits for fan failure include issues with the fan assembly, fan clutch, or the coolant temperature sensor. If the fan does not activate during engine idling, it may take longer for the system to respond, but this delay should not be ignored. Additionally, a malfunctioning Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary signals to operate. Regularly monitoring your dashboard temperature readings can help you determine if the ECU is functioning correctly. By addressing these issues promptly, you can ensure your Nissan 370Z remains in optimal condition and avoid the risks associated with overheating.

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