2009 Volvo XC90 Radiator Fan Isn't Working

Diagnosing the Causes of a Non-Functional Radiator Fan in Your 2009 Volvo XC90 and How to Fix It

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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 2009 Volvo XC90 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 2009 Volvo XC90 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 a non-working radiator fan in a 2009 Volvo XC90?

To effectively diagnose a non-working radiator fan in your 2009 Volvo XC90, start by checking the fan's operation. Observe whether the fan spins when the engine is running and reaches its normal operating temperature. If the fan does not activate, proceed to test the fan's functionality by turning on the air conditioning; both the radiator and engine fans should engage immediately if they are working correctly. Next, utilize a scan tool to monitor the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) and ensure the fans respond to temperature changes as expected. It's also crucial to inspect the fuses and relays associated with the radiator fan and air conditioning system, as blown fuses or faulty relays can prevent the fan from operating. Additionally, reading any fault codes from the vehicle's computer system with a diagnostic scanner can provide valuable insights into potential issues. If these steps do not resolve the problem, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic or a Volvo specialist for a more thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the issue with your radiator fan.

What are the common problems that could cause the radiator fan to stop working in a 2009 Volvo XC90?

When diagnosing why the radiator fan in a 2009 Volvo XC90 has stopped working, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty radiator fan motor, which can fail to spin and thus prevent adequate airflow through the radiator, leading to engine overheating. Additionally, electrical issues such as a blown fuse or a malfunctioning relay can disrupt the power supply to the fan, rendering it inoperative. Another potential issue is a defective temperature sensor, which may fail to send the correct signals to the fan, resulting in improper cooling operation. Addressing these problems promptly is essential for maintaining the vehicle's cooling system and preventing serious engine damage. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding these common failure modes can help in effectively troubleshooting and resolving radiator fan issues in the XC90.

How urgent is it to repair the non-working radiator fan in a 2009 Volvo XC90 to prevent engine overheating?

Repairing the non-working radiator fan in your 2009 Volvo XC90 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. The radiator fan is essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature by circulating air through the radiator, and when it fails, the risk of engine overheating significantly increases. This overheating can lead to catastrophic engine damage, which may result in costly repairs or even the need for a complete engine replacement. Symptoms such as rising temperature gauges or unusual engine noises should prompt immediate action, as they indicate that the cooling system is compromised. Additionally, a malfunctioning radiator fan can affect other vehicle systems, including air conditioning, further complicating the issue. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and repair the radiator fan promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle, safeguarding against potential safety risks and extensive damage.

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2009 Volvo XC90 Radiator Fan Not Working: Causes & Repairs