What are the symptoms of a bad car radiator fan resistor?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a bad car radiator fan resistor: 1. The airflow cannot be adjusted. 2. There are no 1, 2, 3, or 4 speed settings, only one airflow level. 3. It is usually the maximum airflow level. 4. In some cases, the fan may not work at all. Additional information: A resistor is a current-limiting component. When connected in a circuit, it restricts the current flowing through the connected branch, protecting power devices. The fan resistor primarily controls the fan speed. There is a water temperature sensor near the engine's water outlet. As the water temperature changes, the sensor adjusts the resistance value acting on the fan resistor to control the fan speed, thereby regulating the water temperature.
The radiator fan resistor in my previous car failed, with very obvious symptoms: as soon as the car started, the fan either didn't spin at all or was stuck at high speed, never adjusting its speed as needed. At low speeds, the fan wouldn't work, causing insufficient engine cooling. The temperature gauge needle would quickly rise to the danger zone, especially during summer traffic jams, making it prone to overheating and stalling. Sometimes, even after the car was turned off, the fan would keep spinning at high speed, creating a very loud and scary noise. If not addressed promptly, the engine could be damaged due to overheating, leading to higher repair costs. Based on my observations, this is a common issue in older cars. I recommend regularly checking the fan system, especially when abnormal temperatures are noticed, and visiting a professional shop immediately.