Nissan Rogue Sport Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your Nissan Rogue Sport and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Nissan Rogue Sport 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 Nissan Rogue Sport 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Nissan Rogue Sport

When addressing radiator fan issues in your Nissan Rogue Sport, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the coolant level, as low coolant can lead to overheating and may cause the fan to operate inefficiently. Next, inspect the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, proceed to examine the wiring and components such as the fan motor, clutch, relay, temperature sensor, and fan control module. Pay particular attention to the fan motor, as it can fail if the armature brushes become stuck, preventing proper operation. By following this methodical process, you can identify and address the root cause of the radiator fan malfunction, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

How to Diagnose a Non-Working Radiator Fan in a Nissan Rogue Sport?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in your Nissan Rogue Sport, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the first issues to consider is a blown fuse, which can easily interrupt the power supply to the fan. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to test the voltage at the fan connector; a lack of voltage indicates a deeper electrical issue. Faulty wiring is another frequent culprit, as damaged or corroded wires can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to operate. Additionally, the temperature sensor plays a critical role in fan activation; if it's malfunctioning, it may not signal the fan to turn on when needed. Lastly, consider the fan clutch, as its failure can prevent the fan from engaging properly. By methodically checking these components, you can effectively identify the root cause of the radiator fan's failure and take the necessary steps to resolve the issue.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Nissan Rogue Sport?

When the radiator fan in your Nissan Rogue Sport fails to operate, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. Ignoring this problem can lead to severe consequences, such as engine overheating, which not only compromises vehicle performance but can also result in costly repairs. Start by checking the coolant level, as low coolant can prevent the fan from functioning properly. If the coolant is adequate, inspect the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a simple fix that can restore functionality. If the fuse is intact, consider examining the blower motor resistor for any signs of damage, as this component can affect fan operation. Additionally, be aware that issues with the AC system or control modules may also contribute to fan failure. By taking these steps, you can effectively diagnose the problem and prevent further damage, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.

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