Why does the Cruze's fan start spinning as soon as the engine is started?
2 Answers
The reasons why the Cruze's fan starts spinning as soon as the engine is started are as follows: 1. The air conditioning was not turned off: There is no issue with the car's cooling system; it's just that the air conditioning was not turned off when the engine was last shut down. When the engine is started again, the air conditioning will operate, causing the fan to spin to make the condenser work. 2. A problem with the coolant temperature sensor: This causes the engine control unit (ECU) to fail to recognize the coolant temperature signal, leading the engine to enter a fault mode. The so-called fault mode is an emergency mode of the engine itself. When an important sensor or component signal is missing, the ECU operates according to a preset mode to ensure the engine can continue running normally.
With over 20 years of auto repair experience, I can tell you that a Cruze's fan running immediately upon ignition is no minor issue. Common causes include a faulty coolant temperature sensor falsely signaling high heat and triggering the fan, or a stuck fan relay that keeps the fan running as soon as power is applied. Other possibilities are aged wiring causing a short circuit or a programming error in the control module. This problem drains the battery quickly and becomes especially troublesome on long drives, potentially masking real overheating issues. For diagnosis, start by checking the sensor's resistance with a multimeter, then inspect the fuses and relays. Addressing it early saves hassle—delaying repairs could lead to a burnt-out fan motor, costing you more.