Why does the fan continue to run after some cars are turned off?
2 Answers
The reason why the fan continues to run after the car is turned off is that when the temperature of the coolant is too high after parking, the vehicle's computer automatically calculates the fan's speed and duration. Therefore, the higher the temperature, the longer the fan runs, thereby protecting the engine. This is a normal phenomenon. Below are the reasons why the fan continues to run after the engine is turned off: Loose circuit connection: Try disconnecting the fan's wiring harness, perform a separate power-off process, and then inspect and repair the circuit. Relay or coolant temperature sensor failure: If the relay contacts of the fan are stuck, preventing it from executing the ECU's commands, or if the coolant temperature sensor is damaged, sending incorrect signals to the ECU, both situations can cause the fan to continue running non-stop after the engine is turned off.
I've driven both old and new cars and noticed that it's quite common for the fan to keep running after the engine is turned off, mainly because the engine temperature is still high and needs continued cooling to protect engine components. For example, after long-distance driving in summer, even after turning off the engine, the sensor detects high temperatures and keeps the fan running for a few minutes. This design is to prevent damage or deformation of internal engine parts, much like a pot still steaming after cooking. Most modern cars have electronic systems controlling the fan, powered by the battery, so there's no need to worry about wasting electricity. However, if the fan runs continuously for too long, it might be necessary to check the temperature sensor or coolant level. I've also seen some modified car owners share their experiences, stating that fan delay is a normal protective measure, especially for turbocharged models, which face higher risks of overheating.