Volvo V70 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Volvo V70 Radiator Fan and Effective Repair Solutions

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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 Volvo V70 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 Volvo V70 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.

Troubleshooting Radiator Fan Issues in a Volvo V70

When troubleshooting radiator fan issues in your Volvo V70, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the simplest components, such as the fuse and relay, to ensure they are functioning correctly. If these are intact, proceed to test the fan itself by grounding the relay pins to see if it operates at high or low speed. This step can help identify whether the fan motor is faulty or if there are issues with the control unit. Additionally, observe the fan's operation when the air conditioning is activated, as this can provide further insights into its functionality. If the fan does not engage, consider inspecting the engine coolant temperature sensor, as a malfunctioning sensor can disrupt the fan's operation. By methodically assessing these components, you can effectively diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to repair or replace any faulty parts, ensuring your Volvo V70's cooling system remains efficient and reliable.

What to Check When the Radiator Fan Isn't Working in a Volvo V70?

When troubleshooting a non-functioning radiator fan in a Volvo V70, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the fan assembly itself, as physical damage or wear can prevent it from operating. Next, inspect the fan clutch, which is crucial for engaging the fan when needed; a malfunction here can lead to inadequate cooling. The coolant temperature sensor is another critical component; if it's faulty, it may not signal the fan to turn on, resulting in overheating. Additionally, check for motor failures, as a defective motor can halt fan operation entirely. Electrical issues, including wiring problems or relay failures, can also disrupt the fan's functionality, so ensure all connections are secure and intact. Don't overlook the cooling fan module, as its failure can stem from various factors, including software programming faults that may require a reset or reprogramming. Lastly, testing the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor can provide insights; if unplugging it activates the fan, the issue may lie elsewhere, such as in the A/C system. By methodically assessing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the radiator fan issue in your Volvo V70.

Why is the Radiator Fan Not Working in a Volvo V70?

When the radiator fan in your Volvo V70 is not functioning, it is crucial to address the problem without delay. Ignoring symptoms such as erratic fan behavior, frequent overheating, or an illuminated check engine light can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs. A malfunctioning fan can cause the engine to overheat, which not only affects performance but can also pose safety risks while driving. Additionally, if the coolant temperature sensor is faulty, it may provide inaccurate readings, leading to improper fan operation and potentially leaving your engine vulnerable to overheating. If you notice that the fan continues to run after the engine is turned off, this could indicate a sensor issue that needs immediate attention. By troubleshooting these components—such as the fan assembly, fan clutch, and coolant temperature sensor—you can prevent further complications and ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently. Taking prompt action can save you from more extensive repairs down the line, making it essential to diagnose and resolve radiator fan issues as soon as they arise.

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Volvo V70 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs