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Why is the radiator fan not working on my 2017 Chevy Traverse?

If the radiator fan on your 2017 Chevy Traverse is not working, it could be due to a few common issues. The most likely causes include a faulty fan motor, a problem with the fan's electrical system, or a malfunctioning fan control module. Let's explore these potential problems in more detail.


Faulty Fan Motor


The radiator fan on your Traverse is powered by an electric motor. Over time, this motor can wear out or become damaged, preventing the fan from turning. To check if the fan motor is the issue, you can try manually turning the fan blades. If the fan spins freely but doesn't turn on when the engine is running, the motor is likely the problem. In this case, you'll need to replace the faulty fan motor.


Electrical System Issues


The radiator fan is controlled by the vehicle's electrical system. Problems with the wiring, fuses, or relays can prevent the fan from receiving power and turning on. Check the fuses and relays related to the radiator fan, and inspect the wiring for any damage or loose connections. If you find any issues, you'll need to repair or replace the affected electrical components.


Malfunctioning Fan Control Module


The fan control module is the computer that regulates the operation of the radiator fan. If this module is not functioning correctly, it may fail to turn the fan on when needed. You can try resetting the module by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes, or you may need to replace the faulty module.


Troubleshooting Steps


To diagnose the issue with your Traverse's radiator fan, you can follow these steps:



  • Check the fan motor by manually turning the fan blades. If the fan spins freely but doesn't turn on, the motor is likely the problem.

  • Inspect the fuses and relays related to the radiator fan, and check the wiring for any damage or loose connections.

  • Use a diagnostic tool to check for any trouble codes related to the fan control module or electrical system.

  • If you're unable to identify the root cause, it's best to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the issue.


By following these steps, you should be able to determine the reason why the radiator fan on your 2017 Chevy Traverse is not working and take the necessary steps to fix the problem.

How do I know if my fan relay is blown?


If the cooling fan relay has failed, you may see warnings, such as the check engine light and the temperature warning light, pop up on the dash, but first, you may notice that the A/C stops cooling. More about that in the next paragraph. The check engine light illuminating may indicate a faulty cooling fan relay.



What would make radiator fan not to come on?


If the sensor and the fuse are working correctly, but the fan doesn't turn on even when the car is overheating, it might be a wiring issue. Inspect the wiring going to the radiator's control unit or the relay. Check connector plug health and see if they are corroded at the relay and the control unit.



How do I get a radiator fan to turn on?


Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan

  1. Check the fuse. If the fuse is burnt, replace it with the same size and type.
  2. Inspect the fan's condition.
  3. Test the fan motor.
  4. Check the coolant temperature sensor.
  5. Test the fan relay.
  6. Trace the wiring.



How to get a radiator fan to turn on?


Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting a Non-Functioning Radiator Fan

  1. Check the fuse. If the fuse is burnt, replace it with the same size and type.
  2. Inspect the fan's condition.
  3. Test the fan motor.
  4. Check the coolant temperature sensor.
  5. Test the fan relay.
  6. Trace the wiring.



Why is my radiator fan not working on my Chevy Traverse?


The most common reasons a Chevrolet Traverse radiator fan isn't working are the fan assembly, the fan clutch, or the coolant temperature sensor.



Where is the fuse for the radiator fan located?


On the inside of your fuse box (your car may have more than one) there should be a fuse location marked AUX FAN. This would be for electrical fans that cool the motor over a certain temperature.



What tells the radiator fan to kick on?


The engine temperature should trigger the fan to turn on. It will also turn the fan off once the engine has cooled to under 200 degrees. You may have heard of a part called the radiator fan switch or temperature fan switch. This is linked to a thermostat and works much like your home's HVAC system.



Will my coolant sensor make my radiator fan not turn on?


A signal from the coolant temperature sensor is what triggers the ECU to turn on the radiator fan, and if it's faulty, it can prevent the fan from working at all. Test the fan relay. Since the relay operates as a switch for the fan's power, a defective cooling fan relay won't energize the circuit.



Why is my cooling fan not kicking in?


Some of the most common causes of a faulty radiator fan include a blown fuse, a faulty temperature sensor, or a defective fan relay. If the fan stops working, your engine could overheat and be damaged.



Can a blown fuse cause radiator fan not to work?


Blown fuse: This is the most likely reason for a non-functioning electric radiator fan.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.