2017 Nissan NV1500 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2017 Nissan NV1500 and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2017 Nissan NV1500 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 2017 Nissan NV1500 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2017 Nissan NV1500?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2017 Nissan NV1500, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking 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, inspect the relay, as it controls the power supply to the fan and may need replacement if faulty. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to run, replacement is likely necessary. Additionally, evaluate the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. A malfunctioning sensor can prevent the fan from operating as intended. Don’t forget to check the wiring and connections for any loose or damaged components that could disrupt functionality. Finally, using an OBD-II scanner can help identify any error codes related to the cooling system, providing further insight into the issue. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2017 Nissan NV1500?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan NV1500 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to spin, leading to overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can cut off power, rendering the fan inoperative. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Physical damage, such as broken fan blades, can also hinder the fan's ability to cool effectively. Lastly, wiring issues, including frayed or disconnected wires, can disrupt the electrical connection necessary for the fan's operation. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's cooling system and prevent engine overheating, making it vital for DIYers to systematically check each component for faults.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan NV1500 to avoid engine damage?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan NV1500 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets. Additionally, prolonged overheating can compromise other vital engine parts, such as the water pump and thermostat, resulting in costly repairs. Beyond the immediate mechanical risks, neglecting to fix the radiator fan can also diminish the vehicle's overall performance and fuel efficiency. Therefore, addressing this issue promptly is crucial not only for the longevity of the engine but also for maintaining the vehicle's operational integrity and safety.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in 2017 Nissan NV1500