2015 Volkswagen Jetta Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functional Radiator Fan in a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta

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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 2015 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2015 Volkswagen Jetta 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 a non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta?

To effectively diagnose a non-working radiator fan in a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuse associated with the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a common and easily fixable issue that can halt fan operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Following this, 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 plays a crucial role in signaling the fan to activate based on engine temperature. A faulty sensor can disrupt this process. It's also important to check for any wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, which can impede the fan's functionality. Finally, using a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes related to the cooling system can provide valuable insights into any underlying problems. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the radiator fan's malfunction.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in your 2015 Volkswagen Jetta 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 overheating. Additionally, check for a blown fuse in the fan circuit, as this can interrupt the power supply and prevent the fan from operating. Another critical component to inspect is the temperature sensor; if it's defective, it may not signal the fan to activate when necessary. Physical damage to the fan blades can also hinder performance, so ensure they are intact and free from obstructions. Furthermore, wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection, so examine the wiring for any signs of wear or damage. Lastly, a coolant leak can lead to low coolant levels, which may cause the engine to overheat and affect the fan's functionality. By systematically checking these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issues with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. When this component fails, the engine is at a heightened risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, and even complete engine failure. These issues not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs and significant safety hazards while driving. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of radiator fan malfunction immediately to ensure the engine operates within its optimal temperature range, thereby safeguarding both the vehicle's integrity and the safety of its occupants. Prompt action can prevent long-term damage and save you from the financial burden of extensive repairs down the line.

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2015 Volkswagen Jetta Radiator Fan Not Working | RepairPal