2022 Volvo XC40 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Resolve 2022 Volvo XC40 Radiator Fan Issues to Maintain Engine Cooling

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2022 Volvo XC40 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 2022 Volvo XC40 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 2022 Volvo XC40?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning radiator fan in a 2022 Volvo XC40, 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 prevent the fan from operating. If the fuse is intact, the next step is to inspect the relay that controls the fan; a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan. Following this, test the radiator fan motor directly by applying power to it; if the motor fails to spin, it may need replacement. Additionally, ensure that the temperature sensor is functioning correctly, as it is responsible for signaling the fan to activate based on engine temperature. It's also crucial to examine the wiring for any damage or loose connections, as these can impede the fan's operation. Finally, using a diagnostic tool to scan for error codes can provide valuable insights into any underlying issues affecting the fan system. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the radiator fan malfunction.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2022 Volvo XC40?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in your 2022 Volvo XC40 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. A faulty fan motor is often the primary culprit, as it can fail to spin, leading to overheating. Additionally, check for a blown fuse in the fan circuit, as this can interrupt the power supply and prevent the fan from operating. Inspecting the fan blades for any damage is also essential; broken blades can hinder airflow and cooling efficiency. Another potential issue is a faulty temperature sensor, which may fail to signal the fan to activate when necessary, resulting in overheating. Lastly, wiring issues can disrupt the electrical connection, preventing the fan from receiving power. By systematically examining these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the radiator fan issues in your Volvo XC40, ensuring optimal engine cooling and performance.

How urgent is it to address the non-working radiator fan in a 2022 Volvo XC40?

Addressing a non-working radiator fan in your 2022 Volvo XC40 is critical to maintaining the health of your vehicle. The radiator fan plays a vital role in cooling the engine by dissipating heat from the radiator; without it functioning properly, your engine is at risk of overheating. This overheating can lead to severe consequences, including damage to essential components like the head gasket and water pump, which can escalate repair costs significantly. In the worst-case scenario, prolonged neglect of a faulty radiator fan could result in complete engine failure, leaving you with a hefty repair bill and a vehicle that may be out of commission for an extended period. Additionally, an overheating engine can compromise your vehicle's overall performance and efficiency, making it less reliable on the road. Therefore, if you notice that your radiator fan is not working, it is imperative to address the issue immediately to prevent further damage and ensure your Volvo XC40 operates smoothly and safely.

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2022 Volvo XC40 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs