1993 Toyota Supra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 1993 Toyota Supra 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 1993 Toyota Supra 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 1993 Toyota Supra 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.

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-working radiator fan in my 1993 Toyota Supra?

To effectively diagnose the non-working radiator fan in your 1993 Toyota Supra, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex issues. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable problem that can halt the fan's operation. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan to function. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, examine the temperature sensor, which is crucial for signaling the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. A faulty sensor can prevent the fan from turning on, leading to overheating. Don’t forget to inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these can impede the fan's performance. Lastly, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can also affect the fan's functionality. By following this diagnostic 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 1993 Toyota Supra?

When dealing with a non-working radiator fan in a 1993 Toyota Supra, it's crucial to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which can prevent the fan from spinning and adequately cooling the engine. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt the power supply, leading to a complete shutdown of the fan. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches its optimal temperature. It's also important to check the fan belt; if it's broken or slipping, the fan won't operate correctly. Lastly, a coolant leak can result in low coolant levels, causing the engine to overheat and the fan to stop functioning as a protective measure. By systematically diagnosing these common issues, DIYers can effectively pinpoint the problem and restore proper cooling to their vehicle.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 1993 Toyota Supra to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 1993 Toyota Supra, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. Without it, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or during hot weather. 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, neglecting this issue can adversely affect other vehicle components, such as the transmission, compounding the potential for expensive damage. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning radiator fan promptly is crucial not only for the immediate performance of the vehicle but also for ensuring its long-term reliability and safety on the road.

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