2020 Toyota Camry Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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.

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 are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Toyota Camry?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Toyota Camry, it is essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest checks. Start by examining 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. Following this, test the fan motor by applying power directly to it; if the motor does not run, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; a malfunctioning sensor can disrupt this function. Ensure that all wiring and connections are secure and free from damage, as faulty wiring can lead to operational failures. Finally, using a diagnostic scanner to check for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) can provide valuable insights into the underlying issues affecting the fan's performance. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the problem with the radiator fan in your Toyota Camry.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2020 Toyota Camry?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2020 Toyota Camry 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 issue to investigate is the fan belt; if it is broken or damaged, the fan will not function correctly, resulting in inadequate cooling. Furthermore, a malfunctioning temperature sensor may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary, contributing to overheating. Lastly, a coolant leak can exacerbate the situation by causing the engine to overheat, which may prevent the radiator fan from operating effectively. By addressing these issues promptly, DIYers can ensure that their radiator fan operates efficiently, helping to maintain the engine's optimal performance and prevent overheating.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2020 Toyota Camry?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2020 Toyota Camry, the urgency to address this issue cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat from the radiator, and without it, your engine is at a significant risk of overheating. This is particularly critical during hot weather or in stop-and-go traffic, where the engine generates more heat. Overheating can lead to severe damage to vital engine components, including the head gasket, cylinders, and pistons, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely action. Moreover, ignoring the problem could leave you stranded on the road, facing not only the inconvenience of a breakdown but also the added expense of towing services. By addressing the non-functioning radiator fan promptly, you can maintain your engine's optimal operating temperature, ensuring its longevity and performance. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is crucial to take immediate steps to diagnose and resolve the issue to safeguard your vehicle's health.

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2020 Toyota Camry Radiator Fan Issues: Causes & Repairs