2016 Volvo S80 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2016 Volvo S80 and How to Fix It

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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 2016 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 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 steps should I take to diagnose the non-functioning radiator fan in my 2016 Volvo S80?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in your 2016 Volvo S80, start with the simplest checks to rule out basic issues. Begin by verifying the coolant levels, as insufficient coolant can lead to overheating and fan malfunction. Next, test the radiator fan directly using a 12v battery to see if it operates independently; this will help determine if the fan itself is faulty. If the fan works, inspect the relevant fuses for any signs of damage, as blown fuses can interrupt power to the fan. Utilizing a scan tool is crucial for deeper diagnostics; connect it to your vehicle and check for error codes related to the engine control module, which can provide insights into potential electronic issues. Pay special attention to the temperature sensor, as a malfunctioning sensor may cause the fan to run continuously or not at all. Additionally, listen for any unusual sounds from the fan, which could indicate mechanical problems. Finally, monitor the engine coolant temperature with your scan tool to ensure the fan activates at the correct thresholds, and confirm that other cooling system components are functioning properly to prevent overheating. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify the cause of the radiator fan issue and take appropriate action.

What are the common causes for the radiator fan not working in a 2016 Volvo S80?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2016 Volvo S80 is not functioning, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the first things to check is the fuse associated with the radiator fan; a blown fuse can easily disrupt the fan's operation. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the fan motor itself, as a faulty motor may prevent the fan from spinning. Additionally, the temperature sensor plays a vital role in regulating the fan's activity; if this sensor is defective, it may not signal the fan to turn on when needed. Lastly, a broken fan relay can also be a culprit, as it controls the electrical flow to the fan. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can identify the root cause of the radiator fan issue and take appropriate action to resolve it, ensuring the engine remains cool and functions optimally.

How urgent is it to repair the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2016 Volvo S80 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-functioning radiator fan in a 2016 Volvo S80 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to severe engine overheating, which poses a significant risk of engine damage and costly repairs. When the radiator fan fails, it disrupts the cooling process, causing the engine to run hotter than normal, especially during prolonged use or in heavy traffic. This overheating can stress the entire cooling system, potentially leading to leaks, thermostat failures, or even a damaged water pump. Additionally, low coolant levels can exacerbate these issues, further jeopardizing the engine's health. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of a faulty radiator fan immediately to prevent a cascade of problems that could compromise the vehicle's performance and safety. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of your Volvo S80.

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2016 Volvo S80 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Solutions