{"id":4559,"date":"2023-06-05T14:20:30","date_gmt":"2023-06-05T14:20:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.automotiveguider.com\/?p=4559"},"modified":"2023-06-05T14:33:29","modified_gmt":"2023-06-05T14:33:29","slug":"cooling-fans-only-work-when-temp-sensor-is-unplugged","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.automotiveguider.com\/automotive-guides\/cooling-fans-only-work-when-temp-sensor-is-unplugged\/","title":{"rendered":"Cooling Fans Only Work When Temp Sensor Is Unplugged"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The automotive cooling system is comprised of a radiator, fan, fan belt, thermostat, and water pump. Each component plays a major role in keeping the engine cool. Do your car’s cooling fans only work when temp sensor is unplugged? The culprit is generally a faulty temperature sensor.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To diagnose the issue, I invested time in learning the ins and outs of the automotive cooling system. When functioning at the maximum level, the cooling system maintains between 195 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Otherwise, the car will overheat<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cooling Fans Work When Temp Sensor Is Not Plugged In<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What if the cooling fans only work when temp sensor is unplugged? On most vehicles, the temperature switch makes the fan turn on and off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To determine whether the sensor is the problem, you\u2019ll need to unplug it. Some vehicles have three, including one for the warning light, another for the PCM, and one for the overhead console.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the coolant temperature sensor has been unplugged, the fan should spin. The PCM will detect a switch failure and log a Diagnostic Trouble Code. Then, the fan should turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If this doesn\u2019t happen, your vehicle may have an open coolant temperature switch. This means that it remains open until the coolant reaches a specific temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once the correct temperature is achieved, the switch will close and cause the fans to turn on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Does Automotive Cooling System Function?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The automotive cooling system utilizes a liquid coolant, antifreeze. The system is sealed to allow the liquid coolant to circulate through the engine block channels that are interconnected. A water pump pushes the liquid cooling through the engine\u2019s main body or cylinder block. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The automotive cooling system capacity is between 24 and 50 ounces for many makes and models. To ensure the maximum functionality of the cooling system, the liquid coolant must meet the expert recommendation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the liquid coolant<\/a> circulates through the engine block channels, it absorbs heat generated by the motor. The process keeps the engine and other major components cool and from overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dangers Of Overheating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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It only makes sense, if an automobile has a cooling system, it has a vital role in the operational process. While the automotive cooling system appears simple, it is anything but. It helps the engine maintain a temperature of 220 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overheating puts severe strain on every inch of the engine. When the temperature gauge reads \u201chigh,\u201d it is vital to switch off the ignition as soon as possible. Wait until the vehicle is in a safe location before killing the engine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The damage varies on how high the temperature goes, how long the engine is hot before shutting down, and the culprit. With this said, an engine running hot for only a few seconds can cause significant damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

More often than not, an overheating engine results in piston and cylinder wall warping or deformities. It can also blow out the head seal (gasket), resulting in a loss of pressure inside the engine. In turn, the combustion chamber pistons stop firing and the engine loses complete power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Faulty Cooling Fan Module<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A faulty cooling fan module could also be the culprit. A faulty fan module can be detected through onboard diagnostics, utilizing an OBD-II scanner. The culprit is not always a fan module but the electrical wiring that powers the unit. A bare, broken, or bent electrical wire can cause a short circuit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the wire powering the unit is damaged, the fan module may work periodically or not at all. I recommend visually assessing the wiring leading from the cooling fan module to the main fuse block. If the wiring is in good condition, the culprit is probably a faulty fan module.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Does The Temp Sensor Do?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Automobiles tend to have multiple temperature sensors. These sensors are designed to keep the engine cool by triggering cooling mechanisms when certain temperatures are reached.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For instance, the radiator fan is turned on and off using a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor will determine the temperature of the system. Then, it\u2019ll make the fan turn on when necessary and off when it is no longer needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The temp sensor is normally found in the thermostat cover. If it is not working correctly, the fan may not turn on causing the system to overheat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your vehicle has a coolant temperature sensor that helps ensure fuel is properly mixed with oxygen. Regardless, the purpose of the sensor is to determine the temperature and trigger a result when a specific temperature is reached.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When Does The Radiator Fan Turn On?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The radiator fan in your vehicle is turned on by the temperature sensor. Although the specific temperature varies from vehicle to vehicle, it is common for radiator fans to turn on around 200 degrees Fahrenheit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once the temperature sensor picks up temperatures of 200 degrees or higher, it\u2019ll send a signal to the fan causing it to turn on. After the temperature has decreased below the desired threshold, the sensor will cause the fan to turn off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suffice to say, the temp sensor plays a vital role in keeping the radiator and other components cool when the vehicle is in operation. If your vehicle is overheating<\/a>, listen carefully and see if you can hear the fan turn on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the fan doesn\u2019t turn on, there could be something wrong with the sensor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Is The Cooling Fan Not Turning On?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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\"radiator<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

The cooling fan should turn on and off automatically depending on the temperature of the engine. However, certain problems can prevent the fan from working correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most common problem is that the temperature switch or sensor has stopped working. The sensor makes the fan turn on and off based on the temperature. If the sensor stops working, the fan may not come on or it may run constantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatively, the engine thermostat may be stuck in the open position, the fan relay may be bad, or there might be a wiring problem. The fan motor may no longer work too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Driving a vehicle with an inoperable cooling fan can be risky so it is best to get the problem sorted out immediately. Otherwise, the vehicle may overheat and vital components could be seriously damaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Checking The Cooling Fan<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Is the cooling fan turning on and off as intended? The only way to find out is by turning on the vehicle and letting the engine get hot. Once the coolant reaches 200 degrees, the fan should turn on to help cool the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leave the hood open or listen carefully to see if the fan is turning on correctly. If the cooling fan doesn\u2019t turn on, start by checking the fuse. Despite being small, the fuse is more important than most people imagine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Look at the fuse closely and make sure the wire is still in good condition. If the wire is broken, the fuse must be replaced. I have also used a multimeter to make sure the fuses are still working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the fuse is in good condition, you can try jump-starting the cooling fan. Unplug the connector. Create some makeshift jumper cables so you can connect the fan directly to the battery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the jumper cables are connected, the fan should begin spinning. If the fan isn\u2019t spinning, it is likely the source of the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms Of A Problematic Temp Sensor<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you concerned that your temperature sensor could be failing? Usually, sensors stop working out of the blue. However, it may be possible to pick up the signs of a problem before the sensor stops completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most common sign is an overheating engine. If the sensor isn\u2019t working, the fans aren\u2019t going to turn on and off so the engine will overheat. Other problems include rough idling, radiator fan issues, shifting problems, and black smoke coming from the exhaust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The check engine light should turn on when something is wrong with the temperature sensor. You may also notice that your gas mileage is lower than before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ultimately, this problem must be rectified early because ignoring the problem will only increase the likelihood that the engine is going to overheat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fixing A Faulty Temp Sensor<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What does it mean if the cooling fans only work when temp sensor is unplugged? Unfortunately, this likely means that your temperature sensor has stopped working. I would replace the sensor immediately to avoid irreparable damage due to overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the temperature sensor is installed, it will be submerged fully in coolant. Therefore, it won\u2019t operate properly if the coolant level is too low. First, you\u2019ll need to obtain a suitable replacement sensor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check the make and model of the vehicle you have so you can get the right ECT sensor. When you begin replacing the sensor, you may need to drain the cooling system and add new coolant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In some cases, the coolant will be contaminated. In this situation, it would be best to have the system flushed to avoid costlier repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Usually, the temperature sensor is easy to access so replacing it won\u2019t be too difficult. However, draining and flushing the system can be difficult so it might be wise to hire a professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reducing The Risk Of Overheating<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Besides replacing your temp sensor, you\u2019ll also want to take steps to avoid overheating in the future. The sensor won\u2019t help if your coolant level is too low or the system has a leak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the very least, you should check your coolant level once or twice a week. Don\u2019t remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot because the coolant will spray in your face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check the coolant before driving to avoid injuries. During trips, it would be wise to keep an eye on the temperature gauge. Don\u2019t hesitate to pull over to give the engine time to cool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When possible, turn off your air conditioner to reduce the load on the engine. If you notice that your car is overheating, immediately pull to the side of the road and turn off the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Driving an overheating vehicle is only going to cause more problems. Before driving each day, check under the vehicle for oil and coolant leaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Proper maintenance will prove to be very helpful and it\u2019ll give you greater peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nevertheless, your temp sensor may still stop working at any point. Consider having a replacement in your garage so you can be ready for anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n
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What Is The Purpose Of A Cooling Fan?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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In an automobile, the cooling fan is vital for ensuring there is proper airflow to the radiator. The fans are usually located in front or behind the radiator. Besides forcing air to flow through the radiator, the fan also helps manage the temperature of the engine.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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How Often Do Radiator Fans Need To Be Changed?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Cooling fans or radiator fans tend to last for many years. At the minimum, your radiator fan should remain functional for eight years. On the other hand, some fans will continue working efficiently for ten years or longer.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Is It Easy To Replace A Radiator Fan?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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It usually isn\u2019t difficult to replace a radiator fan although you will need the right tools and equipment. Replacement fans can be purchased at any automotive store. The fan is easily accessible at the front of the vehicle making it simple to remove and replace.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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