Q: Car overheating due to nonworking fan

asked by on February 17, 2016

My car overheats when I am coming home from work. The engine fan is not turning.

Car is overheating Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The fan on your vehicle is an electric fan. It comes on as needed to help cool the radiator when the coolant reaches a pre-determined temperature. This is usually around 220 degrees. Fan motor failure is common and not a very complicated repair usually. A mechanic can make sure the fan is getting the proper signals to come on and ensure that it is in fact the reason why the motor is overheating.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you calibrate the electronic compass?
Your car’s electronic compass (if equipped) should be calibrated when you buy it, but it may lose its calibration due to interference from power lines, strong magnetic fields or even from replacing the battery. When this happens, you need to...
Car died after battery, brake, and Check Engine light came on.
Hi there. When you get this combination of warning lights and symptoms it is typically the result of a battery that has failed. If the battery voltage gets low enough then the check engine light and the brake light can...
Audi stuck in first gear.
Your transmission needs a vehicle speed sensor signal in order for it to shift. A bad sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/abs-speed-sensor-replacement) may be the cause of your problem and would need to be properly diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to scan for codes...
Car won't turn off; can't get key out of ignition
If your car is not turning off, and you are unable to remove the key, that may be sign that the ignition lock, or possibly switch, has gone bad. A failed ignition lock or switch can sometimes fail, and jam...
Windshield wipers keep going
The windshield wiper motor has a parking circuit that will cause the motor to park home, and the wiper blades to shut off, when you turn off the wipers at the switch. If a problem is encountered where the wiper...
Replaced only 1 tire in AWD vehicle.
It is recommended on any vehicle with AWD (all-wheel-drive) to replace all four tires (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-know-when-to-replace-tires_2) at the same time. The reason behind this need is due to the computer on the vehicle constantly monitoring the speed of each wheel. The...
What causes code Code 00543 and how to fix?
Hello. The code 00543 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) stands for "Engine speed to max exceeded". Meaning the computer has detected the engine has crossed over 7200RPMs due to an operating fault. Since you were simply starting the vehicle and backing it up, it...
Red Battery indicator comes on. Car cuts off on the highway.
Hello There, It sounds like you may have a failing alternator or voltage regulator. As you know, the alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine runs by generating amperage and recharging the battery while the engine turns...
P2196 OBD-II Trouble Code. came and went in 24 hours. 4 starts.
If the mechanic tested the output (functioning) of the oxygen sensor, especially according to the protocol at this link (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p2196-obd-ii-trouble-code-o2-sensor-signal-stuck-rich-bank-1-sensor-1-by-robert-kulp) and found that the sensor was non functioning at that time, what you might be experiencing is a "failing" oxygen...

Related articles

How Much Power Does the AC Draw From the Engine?
Most cars these days come with air conditioning as a standard feature – gone are the days...
What Is the Purpose of Engine Gaskets?
Engine gaskets work as seals to maintain pressure, hold fluids, and prevent debris from entering the engine. Gaskets are vital for engine performance.
How to Purchase a Pre-Owned BMW
BMW BMW offers a wide selection of luxury cars. In many circles, owning a BMW is a sign of success. While most balk at the price of a brand new BMC car, pre-owned models provide a viable alternative if you...