2013 Toyota Camry Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2013 Toyota Camry 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 2013 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 2013 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2013 Toyota Camry?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Toyota Camry, it’s important to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest checks. Start by inspecting 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 examine the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan; a faulty relay can prevent the fan from operating. Following this, you should test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if the motor does not run, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is responsible for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt the electrical flow to the fan. If these steps do not lead to a solution, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair recommendations. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2013 Toyota Camry?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2013 Toyota Camry is not working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it directly affects the fan's ability to operate. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, rendering the fan inoperative. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature, leading to overheating. Furthermore, a broken or slipping fan belt can prevent the fan from turning, while a coolant leak can lower coolant levels, triggering the engine to overheat and the fan to shut down as a protective measure. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can identify and address the root cause of the radiator fan's failure, ensuring optimal engine cooling and performance.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Toyota Camry to avoid engine overheating?

Addressing the issue of a non-working radiator fan in a 2013 Toyota Camry is of utmost importance due to the immediate risks of engine overheating. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool, especially during high-demand situations such as heavy traffic or hot weather. If the fan fails, the engine can quickly reach dangerous temperatures, leading to severe consequences like warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's integrity but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Furthermore, neglecting the radiator fan can lead to additional damage to other cooling system components, such as the water pump and thermostat, compounding the problem and increasing repair expenses. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize the repair of a non-working radiator fan to safeguard the vehicle's performance and longevity, ensuring that the engine operates within its optimal temperature range.

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2013 Toyota Camry Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs