2013 Nissan NV2500 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in a 2013 Nissan NV2500

Find Repair Location
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 2013 Nissan NV2500 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 2013 Nissan NV2500 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 2013 Nissan NV2500?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Nissan NV2500, 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, move on to inspect the relay that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate based on engine temperature; a malfunction here can disrupt the fan's functionality. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as faulty wiring can also impede operation. Lastly, check the coolant levels, as low coolant can lead to overheating and may cause the fan to stop working altogether. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2013 Nissan NV2500?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 Nissan NV2500, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the fan motor itself, as a faulty motor is often the primary culprit preventing the fan from operating. If the motor appears to be in good condition, check the fuse associated with the fan; a blown fuse can cut off power and render the fan inoperative. Additionally, inspect the relay, which is responsible for supplying power to the fan motor; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt this flow. The coolant temperature sensor is another critical component to assess, as it determines when the fan should activate; if it's faulty, the fan may not turn on as needed. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also impede the fan's functionality, so ensure that all wiring is intact and secure. Lastly, verify the coolant level in the system; low coolant can prevent the fan from engaging, leading to potential overheating. By systematically checking these areas, you can effectively diagnose and address the issue with the radiator fan in your NV2500.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Nissan NV2500 to prevent engine damage?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in your 2013 Nissan NV2500 is not just a matter of convenience; it is an urgent necessity to safeguard your engine's health. The radiator fan plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature by dissipating heat from the radiator. When this component fails, the risk of engine overheating escalates significantly, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. These issues not only compromise the engine's performance but can also result in costly repairs or even total engine failure if left unaddressed. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is imperative to act swiftly. Ignoring this issue could lead to catastrophic engine damage, making timely repairs essential for maintaining the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

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.