2014 Nissan Sentra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2014 Nissan Sentra 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 2014 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 2014 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.

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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2014 Nissan Sentra?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2014 Nissan Sentra, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that starts with the simplest solutions. Begin by checking the fuse related to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common issue that can easily be resolved. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay, which is responsible for supplying power to the fan; a faulty relay may need replacement. After that, test the fan motor by applying power directly to it; if the fan does not operate, it may require replacement. Additionally, assess the temperature sensor, as a malfunctioning sensor may fail to trigger the fan when the engine reaches the appropriate temperature. It's also important to examine the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or loose connections that could impede power delivery. Finally, check the coolant levels, as insufficient coolant can also affect the fan's operation. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2014 Nissan Sentra?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Nissan Sentra, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it can fail to operate altogether, leaving the engine vulnerable to overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt power supply, preventing the fan from turning on. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. It's also important to check the fan belt; if it's broken or slipping, it won't drive the fan effectively. Low coolant levels due to a leak can exacerbate overheating issues, as the fan may not engage if the coolant is insufficient. Lastly, electrical problems, such as damaged wiring or poor connections, can disrupt the fan's operation. By systematically examining these areas, DIYers can identify and resolve the underlying cause of the radiator fan's failure, ensuring the vehicle's cooling system operates efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Nissan Sentra to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 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. When this component fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases, which can lead to severe damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. Additionally, overheating can compromise other vital components like the water pump and thermostat, resulting in even more extensive and costly repairs. Ignoring the malfunctioning fan can create unsafe driving conditions, particularly in hot weather or heavy traffic, where the engine is more likely to overheat. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to diagnose and address this issue promptly, either by attempting repairs themselves or seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic, to ensure the vehicle operates safely and efficiently.

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