2017 Toyota 86 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2017 Toyota 86 and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 Toyota 86 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 Toyota 86 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 steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Toyota 86?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Toyota 86, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that starts with the simplest solutions. Begin by checking the fuse related to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common issue that can easily be resolved. 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. After confirming the relay's functionality, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is working properly, as a malfunctioning motor will require replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, which can disrupt the power supply. It's also important to verify that the coolant temperature sensor is functioning correctly, as a defective sensor may not trigger the fan to activate when necessary. Finally, utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can help identify any deeper issues within the radiator fan system. By systematically addressing these components, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2017 Toyota 86?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2017 Toyota 86 has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it can fail to spin, leading to potential overheating of the engine. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, effectively shutting down the fan's operation. Another critical component to check is the temperature sensor; if it malfunctions, it may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches high temperatures, resulting in overheating. Physical damage to the fan blades can also hinder performance, as broken or bent blades will disrupt airflow and cooling efficiency. Lastly, wiring issues, such as frayed or disconnected wires, can prevent the fan from receiving the necessary power to function. By systematically addressing these potential issues, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and restore the radiator fan's operation, ensuring the engine remains at an optimal temperature.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Toyota 86 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2017 Toyota 86 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by cooling the radiator, and without it, the engine is at a high risk of overheating. This overheating can lead to severe consequences, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets, which can result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Additionally, neglecting this issue can diminish engine performance, increase emissions, and reduce fuel efficiency, ultimately affecting the vehicle's overall functionality and longevity. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to address any signs of cooling system failure immediately to prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle operates smoothly. Taking swift action not only safeguards the engine but also enhances the driving experience and maintains the vehicle's value.

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2017 Toyota 86 Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Solutions