2021 Nissan NV1500 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Radiator fan not working in 2021 Nissan NV1500: causes and solutions

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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 2021 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 2021 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 are the steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2021 Nissan NV1500?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a 2021 Nissan NV1500, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler checks before tackling more complex issues. Start by inspecting the fuse linked to the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a frequent culprit that can easily be replaced. If the fuse is in good condition, the next step is to examine the relay, as a defective relay can interrupt the electrical supply to the fan. After confirming the relay's functionality, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it operates correctly; if it does not, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can impede power delivery to the fan. Employing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can also help identify specific problems within the system. Lastly, verify that the coolant temperature sensor is functioning properly, as a malfunctioning sensor may prevent the fan from activating when required. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve issues with the radiator fan in your NV1500, ensuring optimal vehicle performance.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2021 Nissan NV1500?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan in a 2021 Nissan NV1500, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to its failure. One of the primary issues is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from operating effectively and cooling the radiator as needed. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, rendering it inoperable. Another potential culprit is a faulty relay, which is responsible for supplying power to the fan motor; if this component fails, the fan will not receive the necessary power to function. The coolant temperature sensor is also critical, as it regulates when the fan should activate; a malfunctioning sensor may fail to trigger the fan at the appropriate times. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can impede the electrical supply to the fan. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and resolve the issue of a non-working radiator fan in your NV1500, ensuring your vehicle remains cool and operates efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2021 Nissan NV1500 to avoid engine damage?

Addressing the issue of a non-working radiator fan in a 2021 Nissan NV1500 is of utmost importance due to the significant risks associated with engine overheating. 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 a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, or even complete engine failure. These issues not only result in costly repairs but can also compromise the vehicle's performance and efficiency, leading to increased fuel consumption and diminished power. Moreover, neglecting to repair the radiator fan poses safety hazards while driving, as an overheating engine can lead to sudden breakdowns. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the repair of a malfunctioning radiator fan to safeguard the engine's health and ensure the vehicle operates safely and efficiently.

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2021 Nissan NV1500 Radiator Fan Not Working | RepairPal