2017 Nissan Pathfinder Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functional Radiator Fan in a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Find Repair Location
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 2017 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Pathfinder 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 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.

When the radiator fans stop functioning properly, the engine temperature will rise. The spike in temperature will be highest when the vehicle is idling at a stop, but should subside once the vehicle begins moving again.

Additionally, the air conditioner typically won't blow as cold. This is because the air from the radiator fans also blows across the air conditioning condenser, so when the fans fail, both systems suffer.

You'll also usually see the check engine light and notice a drop in fuel economy. It's possible the fan will start making noise if it's failing, as well.

What are the steps to diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, it's crucial to follow a structured diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex issues. Begin by inspecting the fuse linked to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common culprit that can easily be replaced. If the fuse is functioning, proceed to examine the relay responsible for controlling the fan; a defective relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to confirm its operational status, since a malfunctioning motor will need to be replaced. Additionally, check the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections, as these can impede electrical flow. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner can also be beneficial, as it allows you to retrieve error codes that may indicate specific problems within the fan system. Finally, ensure that the coolant temperature sensor is working correctly, as a faulty sensor can lead to improper fan activation. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with the radiator fan in your Pathfinder, ensuring optimal vehicle performance.

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

When troubleshooting a non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as a malfunctioning motor will prevent the fan from spinning and adequately cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, necessitating a simple fuse replacement to restore functionality. Another potential issue is a faulty temperature sensor, which may provide incorrect readings and fail to activate the fan when needed. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also impede the fan's operation, requiring careful inspection and repair. Furthermore, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may inadvertently cause the fan to stop working; thus, checking coolant levels is crucial. Lastly, a failed fan relay can prevent the fan from turning on and off as needed, making it necessary to replace the relay to resolve the issue. By systematically addressing these common problems, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and restore the radiator fan's functionality in their Pathfinder.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder?

When it comes to the non-working radiator fan in your 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and a malfunctioning fan can lead to severe overheating, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or during hot weather. This overheating can cause catastrophic damage to critical engine components, including the cylinder head gasket and pistons, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt attention. Additionally, ignoring the problem may leave you stranded on the road, necessitating a tow to a repair shop, which can be both inconvenient and expensive. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and repair the radiator fan issue as soon as possible to maintain the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Taking swift action not only protects your engine from potential damage but also ensures that your Pathfinder continues to perform optimally.

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.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Radiator Fan Issues & Repair Guide