Toyota T100 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Toyota T100 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 Toyota T100 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 Toyota T100 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Toyota T100

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Toyota T100, begin with the simplest checks to avoid unnecessary complications. Start by inspecting the radiator fan assembly and the fan clutch, as these components are often the primary culprits when the fan fails to operate correctly. If the engine is overheating, check for coolant leaks from the water pump, radiator, or hoses, as these can significantly impact cooling efficiency. Additionally, assess the coolant temperature sensor, which plays a crucial role in regulating fan operation. If the fan runs continuously, it may indicate a malfunctioning fan clutch or control module, so consider testing these components next. A practical step is to manually spin the fan with the engine off; if it spins freely and then stops, the fan clutch may need replacement. Lastly, after any maintenance involving coolant, ensure you properly burp the cooling system to eliminate air pockets, which can hinder performance. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve radiator fan issues, ensuring your Toyota T100 runs smoothly.

How to Diagnose a Non-Working Radiator Fan in a Toyota T100?

When diagnosing a non-working radiator fan in a Toyota T100, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. Start by inspecting the fan assembly and the fan clutch, as these are frequent culprits. A malfunctioning fan clutch may prevent the fan from spinning properly, which you can check by observing if the fan spins with resistance when the engine is off. Additionally, examine the coolant temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can fail to signal the fan to activate. Electrical issues are also common; check for a blown fuse, a bad relay, or damaged wiring that could disrupt the power supply to the fan. If the fan operates when the temperature switch is bypassed, this may indicate a specific fault in the fan system. By methodically evaluating these components, you can effectively identify the cause of the radiator fan's failure and take the necessary steps to resolve the issue, ensuring your engine remains cool and functional.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Toyota T100?

When troubleshooting a non-working radiator fan in a Toyota T100, it is vital to understand the urgency of addressing the issue to prevent severe engine damage. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature, and its failure can lead to overheating, which may result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Common reasons for fan malfunction include a defective fan assembly, fan clutch, or coolant temperature sensor, all of which can disrupt the fan's operation. Additionally, electrical issues such as blown fuses, faulty relays, or damaged wiring can prevent the fan from receiving power. It is also important to check for any obstructions in the fan blades and ensure that coolant levels are adequate, as these factors can contribute to the problem. By promptly diagnosing and addressing these potential issues, you can protect your vehicle from further complications and ensure its reliable performance on the road.

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