Why Does My 2012 Chevy Cruze Radiator Fan Run at Full Speed Immediately?
Asked Nov 17, 20150 views1 answer
I am experiencing an issue with my 2012 Chevy Cruze LS 1.8 4-cylinder. The radiator fan runs at maximum speed as soon as I start the engine. I would like to know if the fan sensor is directly connected to the fan motor and if the temperature sensor is part of this circuit. Can you help me determine which part needs to be replaced?
Understanding the Radiator Fan Issue in Your 2012 Chevy Cruze
If your 2012 Chevy Cruze LS 1.8 4-cylinder is experiencing a radiator fan that runs at maximum speed immediately upon starting the engine, it's essential to diagnose the underlying issue accurately. This behavior can be indicative of a few potential problems, often related to the temperature and fan control sensors.
Key Components Involved
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Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (ECTS)
- This sensor monitors the temperature of the engine coolant. If it malfunctions, it might send incorrect readings to the Engine Control Module (ECM), causing the radiator fan to engage at full speed.
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Fan Control Module
- The fan control module regulates the speed of the radiator fan based on the signals received from the ECTS. If this module is faulty, it may default the fan to maximum speed.
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Wiring and Connectors
- Damaged wiring or poor connections can also lead to incorrect signals, resulting in the fan running at high speed.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Step 1: Visual Inspection
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Check the Wiring
- Inspect the wiring harness connected to the ECTS and the fan control module. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections.
Expert Answers
RD
Relly De Jesus
Answered Nov 17, 2015
If your 2012 Cruze's radiator fan is running at maximum speed as soon as the engine starts, it could be due to a faulty water temperature sensor. This sensor is located near the thermostat housing and is responsible for signaling the engine control module (ECM) to turn the fan on or off. You can identify the correct sensor by its two-prong plug, while the water temperature sending unit, which has only one prong, is located nearby.
If replacing the water temperature sensor doesn’t resolve the issue, you might want to consider replacing the fan control module. This part typically costs around $45.
It's also worth noting that this problem is recognized by GM, and if your vehicle is still under the 5-year or 100,000-mile drivetrain warranty, the repairs—including the thermostat housing, thermostat, and temperature sensor—may be covered.
Make sure to check these components, and hopefully, that will help resolve the issue with your fan running at full speed.
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