2017 Porsche 718 Cayman Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Radiator fan not working in 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman and solutions to fix it

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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 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman 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 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that could be the culprit. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan. A faulty relay can prevent the fan from operating, so ensure it is functioning correctly. Following this, test the fan motor itself to confirm it is receiving power; if not, there may be a wiring issue or the motor could be defective. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, as it is responsible for signaling the fan to activate; a malfunctioning sensor can disrupt this process. Lastly, check for any coolant leaks, as low coolant levels can lead to overheating and may inhibit the fan's operation. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power, so checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward first step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also prevent the fan from working, making it crucial to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Furthermore, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may affect fan performance, so ensuring the coolant is at the proper level is vital. Lastly, a faulty fan relay can inhibit the fan from receiving the necessary signal to turn on, and replacing this relay can frequently restore functionality. By systematically addressing these common causes, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in their Porsche 718 Cayman.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman?

When it comes to the radiator fan in your 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman, urgency is paramount. A malfunctioning fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which not only risks immediate performance issues but can also result in catastrophic engine damage over time. If the engine overheats, it may shut down unexpectedly, leaving you stranded and facing potentially exorbitant repair costs. Moreover, prolonged neglect of this issue can escalate to complete engine failure, necessitating a costly replacement. Therefore, addressing the radiator fan issue promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity. By prioritizing this repair, you can safeguard your investment and ensure a smooth driving experience without the looming threat of engine troubles.

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Troubleshooting 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman Radiator Fan Issues