What Causes the Fan to Keep Running in a 2013 Passat?
4 Answers
The reasons why the fan keeps running in a 2013 Passat include a damaged thermal switch on the engine radiator, a power interruption to the low-voltage ignition wire on the thermal switch connector, a faulty high-pressure switch on the air conditioning pipeline, or a defective fan. Below is an introduction to the 2013 1.4TSI Manual Premium Passat: 1. Powertrain: Equipped with a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder EA111 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. 2. Body Dimensions: The length, width, and height are 4870mm, 1834mm, and 1472mm respectively. The wheelbase is 2803mm. 3. Chassis: The drivetrain is front-engine, front-wheel drive. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut independent suspension, and the rear suspension is a multi-link independent suspension.
My 2013 Passat also had the issue of the fan running non-stop before. At first, I thought it was normal cooling, but later I noticed the fan kept running even after turning off the engine. After checking, it's usually a faulty temperature sensor. It's responsible for detecting the engine temperature, and if it falsely signals high temperature, the fan will automatically activate. It could also be a stuck relay, where aging electronic components cause continuous operation. I only felt relieved after fixing it, otherwise the battery kept losing charge, and I worried about not being able to start the car every time I parked. I suggest listening for the fan sound when parking to confirm if it's running continuously. If it is, find a repair shop as soon as possible to diagnose it. The Passat model is prone to sensor issues, so don't delay until major repairs are needed.
As a long-term Passat owner, continuous fan operation often stems from thermostat system failures. For instance, a faulty coolant temperature sensor may send incorrect signals to the control module, triggering constant fan operation. Or poor relay contact and circuit short circuits can prevent the fan from stopping. In the 2013 model, the turbocharged engine's temperature control is particularly sensitive - even minor issues can cause excessive fan operation. My experience suggests checking the engine bay for abnormal heat, which helps determine genuine overheating. Timely sensor replacement solves the issue, preventing fuel waste and component wear.
In this situation, I would first check it myself. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes to see if the fan keeps running. If it doesn't stop, simply test whether the fuses and relay box are blown or loose. My Passat once had a stuck relay, and opening the box and giving it a few gentle taps fixed it. Saves a trip to the repair shop. Battery level can also affect it - the fan draws power when running. Regularly check coolant levels to ensure the temperature control function works properly.
