2012 Volkswagen Touareg Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Working Radiator Fan in 2012 Volkswagen Touareg

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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 2012 Volkswagen Touareg 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 2012 Volkswagen Touareg 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 2012 Volkswagen Touareg?

When diagnosing a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler checks before tackling more complex issues. Start by examining the fuse linked to the radiator fan, as a blown fuse is a frequent and straightforward problem that can easily be resolved. If the fuse is in good condition, the next step is to inspect the relay responsible for controlling the fan; a faulty relay can hinder the fan's operation. Following this, test the radiator fan motor to confirm its functionality, since a defective motor will necessitate replacement. Additionally, assess the temperature sensor, which is essential for activating the fan; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it may fail to signal the fan to operate. It's also vital to check the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections, as these issues can disrupt the fan's performance. Lastly, utilizing a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can reveal any underlying problems affecting the fan system. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issues with your radiator fan, ensuring optimal performance of your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg?

When diagnosing the radiator fan issues in a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may lead to its failure. A faulty fan motor is often the primary reason, as it can fail to operate, resulting in engine overheating. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt the power supply, causing the fan to stop working altogether. It's also important to check the temperature sensor; if this component is defective, it may not trigger the fan to turn on when the engine reaches high temperatures, leading to inadequate cooling. Physical damage to the fan blades can further impede performance, preventing effective airflow. Lastly, wiring issues, such as frayed or disconnected connections, can hinder the fan's operation by interrupting the electrical supply. By methodically examining these areas, you can identify and resolve the underlying issues, ensuring that your radiator fan functions properly and maintains the engine's optimal temperature.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg?

When it comes to the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg, the urgency of repair cannot be overstated. The radiator fan is essential for regulating the engine's temperature by ensuring that the radiator remains cool, especially during heavy driving or in hot weather. If the fan fails, the engine is at a high risk of overheating, which can lead to severe consequences such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets. These issues not only compromise the engine's integrity but can also result in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Moreover, driving with a malfunctioning fan places additional strain on other components of the cooling system, potentially leading to a cascade of failures that further escalate repair costs. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's performance and preventing significant engine damage.

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