Radiator Fan Not Working, Cooling System Overheating Fix

Had a similar issue with my 2017 Chevy Cruze last summer. Since I've done basic maintenance work before but nothing too complex, I was initially puzzled by the engine cooling problems. The radiator fan wasn't engaging properly, and the car would overheat in stop-and-go traffic. Took it to my regular mechanic who diagnosed a faulty speed sensor that wasn't triggering the fan motor correctly. Total repair came to about 250, including parts and labor. Fixed the problem completely, no more overheating issues since then. What's your coolant level like? Have you noticed any leaks under the car? Also, does the fan ever turn on, or is it completely dead? These details would help narrow down if you're facing the same issue I had. Quick tip, while waiting for repairs, try to avoid idle situations and keep moving when possible to help with airflow through the cooling system. What's the mileage on your Spin? Might help compare if we're looking at similar wear patterns.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I'm at 51433 KM and just had my regular service last month. Just checked under the car, no coolant leaks visible. The temperature control seems totally off though, the radiator fan only kicks in when the engine's already way too hot. What's strange is that I can sometimes hear the fan blade trying to spin but it sounds weak. But other times there's no response at all, even when the temperature gauge is climbing. Did your fan make any weird noises before it completely failed? Trying to avoid traffic jams like you suggested, but really need to get this fixed before it causes more damage to the cooling system. Think I'll get it checked out this week.

Thanks for those extra details about your Spin. Your symptoms sound really similar to what I experienced, that weak fan noise is exactly what I heard before my sensor completely gave up. With my Cruze, the inconsistent fan behavior was a clear sign of the failing speed sensor. The way you described the fan trying to spin but sounding weak, that's a huge red flag. On my car, this went on for about a week before the fan stopped responding completely. Your cooling system is definitely struggling just like mine did. The thermal switch might be sending incorrect signals to the fan motor, causing that inconsistent operation. If you're hearing that weak spinning sound, I'd get it checked ASAP. My radiator fan issues started exactly the same way, working sometimes but not others. The car overheating got worse pretty quickly after that. Since you mentioned having no coolant leaks, it's even more likely you're dealing with an electrical issue similar to what I had. When the mechanic replaced my speed sensor, they also recommended checking the entire cooling system to prevent future problems. Might be worth asking them to do the same for yours, especially since the fan's already showing signs of trouble.

Thanks for the detailed feedback. Those symptoms you described with your Cruze match mine perfectly, especially that weak fan noise. Glad you mentioned getting the whole cooling system checked because I was just wondering about that. I'll schedule a visit to the shop tomorrow. The car overheating issue is getting worse, and after hearing about your experience, I don't want to risk damaging anything else. The temperature control problems and inconsistent fan operation are definitely concerning. The radiator fan trying to spin but failing sounds exactly like what you experienced with your speed sensor. I'm hoping it's a similar fix and not something more serious with the fan motor itself. Will make sure to have them check both the thermal switch and the entire cooling system while they're at it. At least the fix wasn't too expensive in your case. Fingers crossed mine will be around the same cost. Thanks again for sharing your experience, really helped me understand what might be going on with my car.