2005 Nissan Murano Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2005 Nissan Murano and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2005 Nissan Murano 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 2005 Nissan Murano 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2005 Nissan Murano?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2005 Nissan Murano, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to examine the relay, which is crucial for powering the fan. A malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary electrical signal. Next, test the fan motor directly by supplying power to it; if it fails to operate, it may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Lastly, inspect all wiring and connections for any signs of damage or disconnection, as faulty wiring can disrupt the fan's functionality. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a mechanic is advisable for more advanced diagnostics and repairs. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2005 Nissan Murano?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2005 Nissan Murano, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from operating and adequately cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse may disrupt the electrical circuit, halting the fan's function altogether, so checking the fuse box for any damaged fuses is a crucial step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning relay, which controls the fan's operation; if this component fails, the fan won't turn on as needed. Furthermore, the coolant temperature sensor plays a vital role in signaling the fan to activate, and if it’s defective, the fan may not receive the necessary signal. Wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also impede the fan's performance, making it important to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Lastly, the cooling fan module, which manages the fan's operation, could be defective and may require replacement. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially resolve the radiator fan issue in their Nissan Murano.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2005 Nissan Murano to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2005 Nissan Murano, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it, the risk of overheating escalates significantly. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs or even total engine failure. Additionally, a malfunctioning fan can trigger the engine to enter a protective "limp mode," reducing performance and efficiency. This not only affects your vehicle's drivability but also poses safety risks on the road. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your vehicle's cooling system and ensuring safe operation. Ignoring the problem could lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs down the line, making it imperative to take action as soon as possible.

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