2020 Nissan Sentra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Radiator Fan in Your 2020 Nissan Sentra and How to Fix Them

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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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 Nissan Sentra?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2020 Nissan Sentra, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can prevent the fan from operating. If the fuse is intact, move on to inspecting the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan. A malfunctioning relay may need replacement to restore functionality. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to run, the motor itself may require replacement. Additionally, verify the temperature sensor, as it plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a specific temperature. Lastly, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections that could disrupt the fan's operation. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a mechanic or dealership is advisable for further diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2020 Nissan Sentra?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Nissan Sentra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit; if the motor has failed, the fan will not spin, leading to inadequate cooling of the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, necessitating a simple fuse replacement to restore operation. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may provide incorrect readings and prevent the fan from activating when the engine requires cooling. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, causing it to stop working. Lastly, low coolant levels can affect the fan's operation, as the engine may not reach the necessary temperature to trigger the fan. By systematically checking these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Nissan Sentra?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2020 Nissan Sentra, addressing the issue without delay is essential for maintaining your vehicle's health. The radiator fan is integral to regulating the engine's temperature; if it fails, the engine is at risk of overheating. This overheating can lead to severe consequences, such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets, which are not only costly to repair but can also result in complete engine failure. Additionally, driving with a malfunctioning fan places undue stress on other components of the cooling system, potentially leading to further damage and more extensive repairs down the line. Therefore, prioritizing the repair of your radiator fan is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of your vehicle, safeguarding against the significant risks associated with overheating. Taking prompt action will not only enhance your driving experience but also protect your investment in the long run.

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