2015 Nissan Xterra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2015 Nissan Xterra 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 2015 Nissan Xterra 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 2015 Nissan Xterra 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Nissan Xterra?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2015 Nissan Xterra, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by examining 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 inspect the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can also prevent the fan from activating. Next, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it fails to work, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power supply to the fan. It’s also crucial to verify that coolant levels are adequate, since low coolant can lead to overheating and may prevent the fan from engaging. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide insights into any underlying issues within the radiator fan system. By following this structured diagnostic 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 2015 Nissan Xterra?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Nissan Xterra, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may have succumbed to wear and tear or electrical malfunctions over time. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the power supply to the fan, necessitating a simple replacement to restore functionality. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning relay, which controls the fan's operation; checking and replacing this component can often resolve the problem. Furthermore, the coolant temperature sensor plays a critical role in signaling the fan to activate; if this sensor is defective, it may fail to send the correct signals, leading to fan inactivity. Lastly, wiring issues, such as loose connections, frayed wires, or corrosion, can impede the electrical flow to the fan. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in their Xterra.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Nissan Xterra to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the urgency of repairing a non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Nissan Xterra, the stakes are high. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it functioning properly, the risk of overheating escalates significantly. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs and even total engine failure. Additionally, a malfunctioning fan can diminish engine performance and increase emissions, posing both environmental and safety concerns. Ignoring this issue not only jeopardizes the vehicle's reliability but also increases the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns, which can be dangerous on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to address the non-working radiator fan promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle, making timely repairs a top priority for any DIY enthusiast.

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