Nissan GT-R Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Nissan GT-R 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 GT-R 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 GT-R 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Nissan GT-R

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Nissan GT-R, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is often the simplest problem to resolve. If the fuse is intact, inspect the fan assembly and ensure that the fan blades can spin freely, as obstructions can prevent proper operation. Next, examine the wiring and connections for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to function. If the fan still does not operate, consider testing the coolant temperature sensor and fan clutch, as these components are critical for fan activation. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the underlying issues affecting your radiator fan, ensuring your GT-R runs smoothly and efficiently.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Nissan GT-R

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in a Nissan GT-R, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the first steps is to check the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse can prevent the fan from operating, and if it continues to blow after replacement, it may indicate a short circuit or excessive electrical draw. Additionally, inspecting the fan assembly for visible damage or wear is crucial, as physical deterioration can lead to malfunction. Other potential issues include faulty wiring, which can disrupt the electrical flow, a broken coolant temperature sensor that fails to signal the fan to activate, or a malfunctioning fan clutch that may not engage properly. If the fan does not operate even when the engine is overheating, this could point to wiring problems or poor connections, so examining the wires and connection plugs for damage or corrosion is vital. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve radiator fan issues in your Nissan GT-R, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Nissan GT-R?

When the radiator fan in your Nissan GT-R is not functioning, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to avoid serious consequences. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to rapid engine overheating, which may result in catastrophic engine failure that is often costly to repair. Common culprits behind this problem include a faulty fan assembly, a defective fan clutch, or issues with the coolant temperature sensor. Additionally, a blown fuse, a bad relay, or damaged wiring can also prevent the fan from operating correctly. Ignoring these symptoms not only jeopardizes your vehicle's performance but also poses a significant safety risk, especially in high-temperature conditions. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, such as the fan not engaging or unusual engine temperatures, it is imperative to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly to protect your engine and ensure safe driving conditions.

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