2018 Nissan NV2500 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in 2018 Nissan NV2500

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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 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 2018 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2018 Nissan NV2500?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Nissan NV2500, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the fan's operation. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is functioning correctly, as a defective motor will require replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can impede performance. It's also crucial to verify that the coolant levels in the radiator are adequate, since low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan operation. Finally, consider using a diagnostic scanner to check for any error codes related to the radiator fan system, which can provide insights into more complex issues. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan problem in your NV2500, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2018 Nissan NV2500?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2018 Nissan NV2500, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from spinning and adequately cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse may disrupt the electrical supply, halting the fan's operation entirely. Another potential issue is a defective relay, which is crucial for delivering power to the fan motor; if this component fails, the fan will not receive the necessary electrical signal to turn on. The coolant temperature sensor also plays a vital role, as it signals the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature; a malfunctioning sensor may fail to trigger the fan when needed. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can impede the flow of electricity to the fan, leading to operational failures. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and resolve the radiator fan issue in their NV2500.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Nissan NV2500 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2018 Nissan NV2500 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. If the fan fails, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to catastrophic consequences such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's integrity but can also result in costly repairs and significant downtime. Moreover, an overheating engine can diminish performance and increase emissions, posing safety hazards if the vehicle were to break down unexpectedly. Therefore, addressing any malfunction with the radiator fan promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's health and ensuring safe operation on the road. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe repercussions, making it imperative for DIY enthusiasts to act quickly and effectively.

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2018 Nissan NV2500 Radiator Fan Issues: Symptoms & Solutions