Nissan D21 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Nissan D21 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 D21 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 D21 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Nissan D21

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Nissan D21, start by checking the simplest components first. Begin with the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem that can prevent the fan from operating. Next, inspect the wiring for any visible damage or loose connections, as faulty wiring can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to function. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, proceed to test the temperature sensor, which plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate based on engine temperature. Lastly, evaluate the fan clutch to ensure it is engaging properly; a malfunctioning fan clutch can lead to inadequate cooling. By following this diagnostic approach, you can identify the root cause of the radiator fan issue and address it effectively, helping to prevent overheating and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

How to Diagnose a Non-Working Radiator Fan in a Nissan D21?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a Nissan D21, it's essential to understand the common problems that can lead to this issue. Start by examining the fan assembly, fan clutch, and coolant temperature sensor, as these components are frequently the culprits behind fan failure. Additionally, inspect the electrical system for blown fuses or faulty wiring, as these can disrupt the fan's operation. If the fan blades are obstructed, manually spinning them can help identify any blockages that need to be cleared. Furthermore, testing the fan clutch is crucial; if the fan operates continuously upon engine start, even in cooler conditions, it may indicate a malfunctioning clutch. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your radiator fan, ensuring your Nissan D21 runs smoothly.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Nissan D21?

Addressing the malfunctioning radiator fan in your Nissan D21 is crucial for maintaining engine health and safety. If you notice that the fan is not operating correctly, it’s important to investigate potential causes such as a faulty fan assembly, a broken temperature sensor, or issues with the fan clutch. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to overheating, which poses significant risks and could result in expensive repairs. Additionally, check for blown fuses or wiring problems, as these can also disrupt fan operation. By diagnosing the issue promptly, you can prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly, safeguarding both your investment and your safety on the road.

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Nissan D21 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs