2012 Toyota Camry Radiator Fan Not Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2012 Toyota Camry and How to Fix It

Find Repair Location
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 2012 Toyota Camry 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 2012 Toyota Camry 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 2012 Toyota Camry?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2012 Toyota Camry, begin with the simplest checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Start by inspecting the fuses and relays associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse or faulty relay can often be the culprit. If these components are intact, proceed to test the cooling system sensors, particularly the coolant temperature sensor, which plays a crucial role in fan operation. Ensure that all electrical connections and wiring to the fan are secure and free from damage, as poor connections can disrupt functionality. Additionally, testing the fan operation with the air conditioning turned on can help identify issues in the fan control circuit, as the fan should engage regardless of engine temperature when the AC is active. If the fan remains unresponsive, consider using a scan tool to check for any trouble codes that may indicate sensor failures or electrical problems. Finally, conduct a physical inspection of the fan itself for any signs of damage, and perform diagnostic tests by manipulating the coolant temperature switch to isolate the issue. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the problem with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle operates efficiently.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2012 Toyota Camry?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Toyota Camry, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A blown fuse is often the simplest issue to check; the radiator fan fuse, typically a 50 amp fuse located in the under-hood fuse box, should be inspected first. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to examine the radiator fan relay, which can also be found in the same fuse box. A faulty relay can prevent the fan from operating, and testing it with a multimeter or swapping it with a similar relay can help determine its condition. Additionally, the cooling system relies on temperature sensors and switches to activate the fan, so checking the coolant temperature switch for malfunctions is crucial. If the fan still does not work, consider the high pressure sensor related to the air conditioning system, as issues here can also impact fan operation. Furthermore, inspect the wiring and electrical connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to function. Lastly, ensure that the coolant system is adequately filled and free of air pockets, as low coolant levels can indirectly affect fan performance. By systematically addressing these common problems, DIYers can effectively diagnose and resolve issues with the radiator fan in their Toyota Camry.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Toyota Camry to prevent engine overheating?

When dealing with a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Toyota Camry, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature, especially during low-speed driving or when the vehicle is stationary. Without it, the engine is at a high risk of overheating, which can lead to catastrophic damage such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, and severe internal engine failures. Symptoms like a rising engine temperature gauge or inadequate air conditioning performance while idling are clear indicators that immediate action is required. Ignoring these signs can result in costly repairs and a significant decrease in your vehicle's lifespan. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly check the fuses, inspect the fan assembly, and address any wiring issues to ensure your engine remains protected from overheating and its associated risks.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2012 Toyota Camry Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs