1994 Toyota Supra Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in Your 1994 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 1994 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 1994 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-functioning radiator fan in my 1994 Toyota Supra?

To effectively diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in your 1994 Toyota Supra, begin with the simplest checks to avoid unnecessary complications. Start by inspecting 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 examine the relay, which controls the power supply to the fan. Testing or replacing a faulty relay can often resolve the problem. Next, test the fan motor directly by applying power to it; if it fails to operate, the motor may need replacement. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, as it is responsible for activating the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature. If the sensor is malfunctioning, it may prevent the fan from turning on. Don’t forget to inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these can disrupt the electrical flow. Lastly, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan performance. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 1994 Toyota Supra?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 1994 Toyota Supra has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common issues 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 relay, which is responsible for activating the fan when needed; if this component is faulty, the fan may not turn on at all. It's also worth checking the fan blades themselves for any damage, as broken or bent blades can hinder performance. The coolant temperature sensor is another critical element; if it fails, it may not signal the fan to engage when the engine reaches high temperatures. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any frayed connections or corrosion, as these can disrupt the electrical flow necessary for the fan's operation. By systematically addressing these areas, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve radiator fan issues in their Supra.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 1994 Toyota Supra to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 1994 Toyota Supra is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by facilitating heat dissipation from the radiator. When this component fails, the engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to severe damage, including blown head gaskets and compromised pistons. Such repairs can be financially burdensome and may even result in complete engine failure if the problem is not addressed swiftly. Additionally, an overheating engine can diminish performance and fuel efficiency, making it crucial to restore the fan's functionality to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly. Ignoring the signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan can leave you stranded and facing more significant issues down the line. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize the repair of the radiator fan to safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity.

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