2018 Nissan NV1500 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2018 Nissan NV1500 and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Nissan NV1500?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2018 Nissan NV1500, 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 controls the power supply to the fan. Testing or replacing a faulty relay can often resolve the problem. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Don’t overlook the wiring connected to the fan; damaged or loose connections can disrupt power flow. Lastly, ensure that coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan functionality. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 Nissan NV1500?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issue in a 2018 Nissan NV1500, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it directly impacts the fan's ability to cool the radiator. If the motor is malfunctioning, the fan will not operate effectively, leading to overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. It's also crucial to check the relay, which is responsible for sending power to the fan motor; if this component fails, the fan will not turn on. Another potential culprit is the coolant temperature sensor, which regulates when the fan should activate; a malfunction here can prevent the fan from engaging when necessary. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or corrosion, as compromised connections can hinder the fan's performance. By systematically evaluating these factors, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issues in their NV1500.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Nissan NV1500 to prevent engine overheating?

Addressing the malfunction of a radiator fan in your 2018 Nissan NV1500 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that demands immediate attention. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and when it fails, the risk of overheating escalates dramatically. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket, which can result in costly repairs that far exceed the expense of a simple fan replacement. Moreover, an overheating engine can cause your vehicle to stall unexpectedly, leaving you stranded and potentially in dangerous situations on the road. Ignoring the signs of a non-working radiator fan not only jeopardizes your vehicle's performance but also compromises your safety and that of others. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to ensure the longevity and reliability of your Nissan NV1500.

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