2014 Toyota RAV4 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2014 Toyota RAV4 and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2014 Toyota RAV4 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 2014 Toyota RAV4 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 initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2014 Toyota RAV4?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2014 Toyota RAV4, it's crucial to approach the diagnosis methodically. Begin by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to operate. Following this, test the radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is working correctly, as a defective motor will require replacement. Additionally, examine the fan blades for any obstructions or damage, as these can impede the fan's ability to spin. It's also important to check the coolant level in the radiator, since low coolant can lead to overheating and may prevent the fan from activating. Lastly, inspect the temperature sensors that relay information to the fan; faulty sensors can miscommunicate the engine's temperature, resulting in the fan not turning on when needed. By systematically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue in your RAV4, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal working condition.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2014 Toyota RAV4?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2014 Toyota RAV4 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; if the motor fails, the fan will be unable to spin, leading to inadequate cooling of the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it 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. Wiring problems, such as loose connections or frayed wires, can also disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan's operation. Furthermore, low coolant levels can affect the fan's efficiency, as the fan relies on coolant to help regulate engine temperature. Lastly, a failed fan relay can prevent the fan from turning on and off as needed. By systematically checking these components, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue with the radiator fan in your RAV4.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Toyota RAV4 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2014 Toyota RAV4 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 when it fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases. 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, an overheating engine can diminish performance, increase fuel consumption, and compromise the overall reliability of your vehicle. Therefore, addressing any cooling system issues immediately is crucial for maintaining the longevity and efficiency of your Toyota RAV4. Ignoring the symptoms of a malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to serious safety risks and extensive damage, making timely repairs not just advisable but essential for any DIY enthusiast looking to keep their vehicle in optimal condition.

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2014 Toyota RAV4 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs