2016 Volkswagen Touareg Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Fixing the Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2016 Volkswagen Touareg

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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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, begin with the simplest checks to avoid unnecessary complications. Start by inspecting 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 examine the relay, as a malfunctioning relay can prevent the fan from receiving power. Next, test the fan motor itself to ensure it is operational; if it fails to run, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, check the temperature sensor, which is vital for activating the fan when needed. If all these components appear functional, inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or looseness that could disrupt the electrical flow. Finally, if the problem persists, utilize a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes that may provide further insight into the issue. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the problem with your radiator fan, ensuring your vehicle operates efficiently.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

When troubleshooting the radiator fan issue in a 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as wear and tear or electrical malfunctions can prevent it from operating effectively. Additionally, a blown fuse in the fan circuit can disrupt power flow, so checking and replacing any blown fuses is a straightforward step to take. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to send the correct signals to activate the fan, necessitating its replacement. It's also crucial to ensure that the coolant level is adequate, as low coolant can lead to overheating and affect fan performance. Lastly, inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can impede the fan's operation. By systematically addressing these common causes, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the radiator fan issue in your Touareg.

How urgent is it to address the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

Addressing a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2016 Volkswagen Touareg is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan plays a crucial role in regulating engine temperature; without it functioning properly, your engine is at risk of overheating. This overheating can lead to severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs and potentially leaving you stranded if the engine shuts down unexpectedly. Moreover, neglecting this issue can exacerbate problems within the cooling system, leading to further complications down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize that timely intervention not only protects your vehicle's integrity but also saves you time and money in the long run. Therefore, if you notice any signs of a malfunctioning radiator fan, it is imperative to take action immediately to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

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