Volkswagen Corrado Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your Volkswagen Corrado and How to Fix It

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Volkswagen Corrado 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 Volkswagen Corrado 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Volkswagen Corrado

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Volkswagen Corrado, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the simplest components first, such as the radiator fan motor. With the ignition in the On position, listen for the motor's activation, which indicates it is functioning. If the fan does not engage, proceed to inspect the fan control unit and the auxiliary coolant pump, as these can also prevent the fan from operating. Next, examine the sensors that regulate the fan's operation; faulty sensors can lead to improper fan cycling. Ensure that the fans are cycling correctly by verifying the fuse in position 19 and checking the thermoswitch on the lower radiator. Additionally, keep an eye on the engine temperature, as the fan may not activate until it reaches 220 degrees Fahrenheit. If the fan still does not operate after these checks, consider testing the low-speed relay and the radiator fan sensor. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve radiator fan issues, ensuring your Corrado remains cool and operational.

What to Check When the Radiator Fan Isn't Working in a Volkswagen Corrado?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a Volkswagen Corrado, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the fan assembly itself, as physical damage or wear can prevent it from operating correctly. Next, the fan clutch should be inspected, as a malfunction here can disrupt the fan's ability to engage when needed. The coolant temperature sensor is another critical component; if it fails, it may not signal the fan to turn on, leading to overheating. Additionally, the fan motor must be assessed to ensure it is receiving power and functioning as intended. Don't overlook the fan relay and fuse, as these electrical components can often be the culprits behind a non-responsive fan. Lastly, the fan control module should be checked, as it orchestrates the fan's operation based on various engine parameters. By systematically evaluating these components, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the radiator fan issue, ensuring your Volkswagen Corrado remains in optimal condition and preventing potential engine damage from overheating.

Why is it Critical to Fix a Non-Working Radiator Fan in a Volkswagen Corrado?

When dealing with a non-working radiator fan in a Volkswagen Corrado, it is essential to act swiftly to avoid severe repercussions. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to engine overheating, which not only risks costly repairs but can also result in catastrophic engine failure. The fan plays a crucial role in regulating engine temperature, and without it, the engine is left vulnerable to overheating, especially during high-demand situations like stop-and-go traffic or hot weather. Additionally, the underlying causes of fan failure, such as a faulty control module or a broken belt, can exacerbate the problem if left unaddressed. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more extensive damage, making timely diagnosis and repair vital. For those who are not experienced in automotive repairs, seeking professional assistance is advisable to ensure that the cooling system functions correctly and to prevent any safety hazards associated with engine overheating.

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Volkswagen Corrado Radiator Fan Not Working