2009 Volkswagen Routan Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functional Radiator Fan in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan

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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 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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.

When the radiator fans stop functioning properly, the engine temperature will rise. The spike in temperature will be highest when the vehicle is idling at a stop, but should subside once the vehicle begins moving again.

Additionally, the air conditioner typically won't blow as cold. This is because the air from the radiator fans also blows across the air conditioning condenser, so when the fans fail, both systems suffer.

You'll also usually see the check engine light and notice a drop in fuel economy. It's possible the fan will start making noise if it's failing, as well.

What are the steps to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan, 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 radiator fan motor itself to ensure it is operational, as a defective motor will require replacement. Additionally, examine the wiring connected to the fan for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these can disrupt power flow. Utilizing a diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can provide further insights into any underlying issues within the radiator fan system. Lastly, verify the functionality of the coolant temperature sensor, as a faulty sensor can also impact the fan's performance. By methodically following these steps, you can accurately diagnose and address the issues affecting your radiator fan.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan is not functioning, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fan motor, which may require replacement to restore the fan's operation. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power, so checking the fuses is a straightforward first step. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when the engine reaches a certain temperature; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Wiring issues, such as damaged or loose connections, can also prevent the fan from receiving power, making it crucial to inspect the wiring thoroughly. Lastly, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which may cause the fan to operate improperly; ensuring that the coolant is at the appropriate level can help maintain optimal engine temperature and fan function. By systematically addressing these common causes, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and potentially fix the radiator fan issue in their Routan.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan to prevent engine overheating?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2009 Volkswagen Routan, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by dissipating heat generated during operation. If this component fails, the engine may overheat, leading to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the vehicle's performance but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Moreover, an overheating engine can lead to complete engine failure, which is a scenario no car owner wants to face. Therefore, addressing the malfunctioning radiator fan promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's efficiency and longevity, ensuring that you avoid the significant risks associated with engine overheating.

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