2009 Pontiac G5 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2009 Pontiac G5 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 2009 Pontiac G5 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 2009 Pontiac G5 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-working radiator fan in my 2009 Pontiac G5?

To effectively diagnose the non-working radiator fan in your 2009 Pontiac G5, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to 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 prevent the fan from operating. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect 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 the motor does not spin, 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. Lastly, ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged, as faulty wiring can impede the fan's functionality. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consulting a mechanic is advisable, as they possess the expertise and tools necessary for a thorough diagnosis. 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 2009 Pontiac G5?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Pontiac G5, it's essential to consider several common issues that may be at play. One frequent culprit is the fan assembly itself, which can fail due to wear and tear or electrical faults. Additionally, the fan clutch may not engage properly, preventing the fan from spinning as needed. Another critical component to examine is the coolant temperature sensor; if it malfunctions, it may not signal the fan to activate, leading to overheating. Wiring issues, such as short circuits or damaged connections, can also disrupt the fan's operation, particularly within the fan circuit or relay. Furthermore, if the fan connector shows signs of melting, it indicates increased resistance that could hinder performance. Lastly, problems with the body control module (BCM) or the powertrain control module (PCM) can interfere with the signaling necessary for the fan to operate correctly. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the issues causing the radiator fan to stop working, ensuring the vehicle remains cool and operational.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Pontiac G5 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Pontiac G5 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which poses significant risks to your vehicle's health. When the fan fails to operate, the engine struggles to maintain a safe temperature, increasing the likelihood of critical damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only result in costly repairs but can also compromise your safety on the road. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose the underlying cause of the fan's failure—whether it be a faulty fan assembly, fan clutch, or coolant temperature sensor—and address it immediately. By taking swift action, you can prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your vehicle, making this repair a top priority for any DIY enthusiast.

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