2007 Nissan Sentra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2007 Nissan Sentra: Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2007 Nissan Sentra 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 2007 Nissan Sentra 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2007 Nissan Sentra?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2007 Nissan Sentra, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by inspecting 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, proceed to examine the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, it may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and free from damage, as faulty wiring can also impede functionality. Lastly, verify the coolant levels, since low coolant can lead to overheating and affect the fan's performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2007 Nissan Sentra?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2007 Nissan Sentra, it's essential to understand the various common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from operating and effectively cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, rendering it inoperative. Another critical component to check is the temperature sensor; if it fails, it may not signal the fan to turn on when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also impede the fan's performance by preventing it from receiving power. Furthermore, low coolant levels can affect the fan's ability to regulate engine temperature, while a malfunctioning fan relay may fail to send the necessary power to the fan motor. By systematically examining these potential issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan problem in their Nissan Sentra.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2007 Nissan Sentra to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2007 Nissan Sentra 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 severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, or even complete engine failure. Additionally, an overheating engine can compromise performance, increase emissions, and create safety hazards, particularly if the vehicle breaks down unexpectedly. Therefore, addressing any issues with the radiator fan promptly is crucial not only to avoid costly repairs but also to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safe operation on the road. Taking immediate action can prevent significant damage and maintain the overall health of your Nissan Sentra.

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.

2007 Nissan Sentra Radiator Fan Not Working | RepairPal