2013 Volkswagen Eos Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functioning Radiator Fan in a 2013 Volkswagen Eos

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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 2013 Volkswagen Eos 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 2013 Volkswagen Eos 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 Volkswagen Eos?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2013 Volkswagen Eos, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start 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 a malfunctioning relay can also prevent the fan from activating. 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, which is vital for triggering the fan when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Don’t overlook the wiring; inspect for any damage or loose connections that could disrupt the fan's functionality. Finally, using a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can provide insights into any underlying issues within the cooling system. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and resolve the problem with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle's cooling system operates effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2013 Volkswagen Eos?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2013 Volkswagen Eos has stopped working, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it can fail to spin, leading to potential overheating of the engine. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can interrupt the power supply, rendering the fan inoperative. Another critical component to check is the temperature sensor; if it malfunctions, it may not signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature. Over time, the fan blades themselves can wear out or sustain damage, which diminishes their cooling efficiency. Lastly, electrical issues such as loose connections or corroded terminals can disrupt the flow of electricity to the fan, causing it to stop working altogether. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan issues in their Volkswagen Eos, ensuring optimal engine performance and preventing overheating.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 Volkswagen Eos?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2013 Volkswagen Eos, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature, and without it, the risk of overheating increases significantly. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, such as warped components or even engine seizure, which can result in costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. Additionally, a malfunctioning fan can compromise the vehicle's overall performance and fuel efficiency, as the engine struggles to maintain optimal operating temperatures. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize that delaying the repair not only poses a safety risk but can also lead to more extensive and expensive issues down the line. Therefore, addressing the radiator fan problem promptly is vital to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle.

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2013 Volkswagen Eos Radiator Fan Issues & Solutions