A cooling fan relay is used on vehicles that have an electrical fan to cool the engine. The function of the cooling fan relay is to convert a low voltage signal from either the electronic control module (ECM) or a thermostatically controlled sensor.
How can you tell if a fan relay is bad?
Keep a lookout for the following bad cooling fan relay symptoms:
The engine runs hot or overheats. The cooling fans don’t work. The cooling fans keep running. Warning lights. Poor air conditioning performance. Swapping Relays. Measuring the Relay Coil’s Resistance. Listening for Noises.
How much does a fan relay cost?
The average cost for radiator fan relay replacement is between $61 and $68. Labor costs are estimated between $28 and $35 while parts are priced at $33. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Do you need a relay for a fan?
Most parts stores carry toggle switches and/or push-pull switches that will handle anywhere from 30-60 amps, so that would work. If you’re using one of those thermostatically-controlled deals (or a low amp rated manual switch) you should use a relay.
Why does my fan run when my car is off?
It’s normal for some vehicles to have a fan run for a few minutes after the car is shut off, generally to keep the engine cool. However, if the fan is running for an extended period, the fan itself can become damaged due to overuse.
What causes a radiator fan not to work?
The most common reasons a radiator fan is not working are luckily due to a blown fuse, bad relay, or a broken wire. It can also be caused by a faulty coolant temp sensor, low coolant level or the fan itself can be damaged.
How do you check if a relay is working?
Here’s How To Test a Relay
Locate the relay you need to test. The quickest and easiest way to test a relay is to swap it out with a known good replacement. Grab a multimeter and set it to Ohms. Leave the multimeter on ohms or continuity. Energize the electromagnet coil with a 9-12V battery across the pins.
How do you check a relay?
The only tool required to check a relay is a multimeter. With the relay removed from the fuse box, the multimeter set to measure DC voltage and the switch in the cab activated, first check to see if there are 12 volts at the 85 position in the fuse box where the relay plugs in (or wherever the relay is located).
Can I drive my car if the fan is not working?
Yes, you can drive your car without a radiator fan, but you never should. Your vehicle’s cooling system is crucial to its performance, and every time your engine overheats, you cause damage.
How much does a new relay cost?
How Much Does a Relay Cost? An aftermarket relay usually costs around $50 to $250. Prices can vary depending on various factors, like its brand, quantity, product fit, and condition. Labor costs for this type of replacement usually range from $30 to $60.
Where is the relay for cooling fan?
The fan relay is usually located near the bottom of the engine compartment on a metal frame member. The metal acts as a heat sink to keep the fan relay cool. So, unplug the connector at the relay and repeat the check for power. If you get power, you’ve got a bum relay.
What are the symptoms of a faulty cooling fan switch?
Common signs include engine overheating, the Check Engine Light coming on, and a broken or shorter signal wire.
How do relays work?
In a normally open relay, power flows through an input circuit, activating an electromagnet. This generates a magnetic field that attracts a contact to join with the second, larger circuit, allowing current to flow through.
How many amps do electric fans draw?
Power draw: The more powerful a fan is, the more current it will draw from your vehicle’s electrical system. Twelve- to 16-inch fans can draw from 15 to 28 amps, while some dual fan applications can draw up to 35 amps. Make sure your electrical system can handle the addition of an electric fan.
