2023 Toyota Sequoia Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2023 Toyota Sequoia and How to Fix It

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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 2023 Toyota Sequoia 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 2023 Toyota Sequoia 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 first indication of a defective fan clutch is a healthy cooling system that runs below or above the normal temperature range. This is due to the fan running too fast or too slow. Also, a seized cooling fan will cause a loud roaring fan noise from under the hood every time the accelerator is pressed, and the engine will feel as if it lacks power. In this situation it would be very difficult to turn the engine cooling fan by hand, of course when the vehicle is off. Finally, if the clutch fails the fan will either turn very slowly, and not respond well to engine speed.

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 initial diagnostic steps to take when the radiator fan isn't working on a 2023 Toyota Sequoia?

When faced with a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2023 Toyota Sequoia, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause. Begin by examining the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay, as it plays a crucial role in supplying power to the fan. A malfunctioning relay can disrupt the fan's functionality. Next, test the fan motor itself to ensure it is receiving power; if it isn't, the problem may lie in the wiring or the motor. Additionally, check for any coolant leaks in the radiator, as low coolant levels can lead to overheating and affect fan performance. Lastly, assess the temperature sensors, as faulty sensors may prevent the fan from activating when necessary. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the radiator fan issue, ensuring your Sequoia remains in optimal working condition.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2023 Toyota Sequoia?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan in a 2023 Toyota Sequoia, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be causing the fan to malfunction. A faulty fan motor is often the primary suspect, as it directly impacts the fan's ability to cool the radiator. Additionally, a blown fuse can interrupt the power supply to the fan, making it inoperable until replaced. Another critical component to examine is the temperature sensor; if it fails, it may not signal the fan to activate when necessary, leading to overheating. Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connections, can also prevent the fan from receiving power, so inspecting the wiring is crucial. Furthermore, low coolant levels can affect the fan's efficiency, so ensuring that coolant is at the proper level is vital for optimal performance. Lastly, a malfunctioning fan relay can disrupt the power flow to the fan, rendering it ineffective. By systematically checking these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem with the radiator fan in your Sequoia.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2023 Toyota Sequoia?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in your 2023 Toyota Sequoia, urgency cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. If this component fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage and costly repairs. Overheating may not only cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly, leaving you stranded, but it can also result in severe damage to critical engine components, potentially necessitating a complete engine replacement. Therefore, addressing a malfunctioning radiator fan immediately is crucial to prevent these serious consequences. By taking swift action, you can ensure the safe operation of your vehicle and avoid the financial burden of extensive repairs down the line.

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2023 Toyota Sequoia Radiator Fan Not Working | RepairPal