A motor fan for car engine cooling, commonly referred to as a radiator fan or cooling fan, plays a crucial role in maintaining the engine’s optimal temperature by drawing or pushing air through the radiator.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand its function, types, and key considerations:
What Does the Motor Fan Do?
- It cools down the engine coolant inside the radiator.
- Operates automatically, typically controlled by a temperature sensor or the ECU.
- Kicks in when the vehicle is idling, moving slowly, or the engine gets hot.
Key Components of an Electric Radiator Fan System
- Fan Blades – Usually plastic or lightweight composite for fast spinning.
- Fan Motor – Powers the rotation; can be single-speed or variable-speed.
- Relay & Fuse – Manages electrical current.
- Temperature Sensor / ECU Control – Triggers the fan at specific coolant temperatures.
- Shroud – Directs airflow for better efficiency.
Signs You Might Need a New Fan or Fan Motor
- Engine overheating, especially in traffic or at idle
- A/C performance drops in stop-and-go traffic
- Fan doesn’t spin even when the engine is hot
- Noisy fan operation (clicking, humming, or grinding sounds)
- Check Engine Light (CEL) or fan control module fault codes
