2023 Ram 1500 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the 2023 Ram 1500 Radiator Fan and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 2023 Ram 1500 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 2023 Ram 1500 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

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 2023 Ram 1500?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2023 Ram 1500, 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 that controls the fan, as a faulty relay can also disrupt functionality. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if the motor does not spin, it may need replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections that could be affecting performance. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes related to the cooling system can provide further insights into specific problems. Finally, monitor the temperature gauge while the vehicle is running; if the engine overheats, it indicates that the radiator fan is likely not functioning as it should. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2023 Ram 1500?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issues in a 2023 Ram 1500, it's essential to understand the common problems that could lead to its failure. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from spinning and adequately cooling the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan, rendering it inoperable until replaced. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning relay, which may fail to send power to the fan, thus stopping it from functioning. The coolant temperature sensor also plays a critical role; if it inaccurately detects engine temperature, it may not trigger the fan to turn on when necessary. Lastly, wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can impede the electrical supply to the fan. By systematically checking these components, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and resolve radiator fan problems in their Ram 1500.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2023 Ram 1500 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2023 Ram 1500 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 engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including blown head gaskets and damaged pistons. Such repairs can be costly and time-consuming, not to mention the potential for complete engine failure if the issue is ignored for too long. Additionally, an overheating engine can compromise the vehicle's overall performance, resulting in decreased power and fuel efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan immediately to safeguard your vehicle's engine and maintain its longevity.

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