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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a cooling/radiator fan motor?
Where can I get my cooling/radiator fan motor replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my cooling/radiator fan motor?
What happens if I don’t replace my cooling/radiator fan motor?
What is a cooling/radiator fan motor?
Can I replace my cooling/radiator fan motor myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a cooling/radiator fan motor?

For a cooling/ radiator fan motor replacement, you can expect an average total cost of $368, with $242 for parts and $126 for mechanic labor costs. Prices vary depending on your vehicle.

How long does it take to replace a cooling/ radiator fan motor? It typically takes an average of 1.1 hours hours for a certified mechanic to complete the replacement. First, your mechanic will inspect your vehicle to confirm if a replacement is necessary and then proceed with the applicable steps to successfully complete the job.

Here’s a look at cooling/ radiator fan motor costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 12, 2024	Barry, 30 Indianapolis, IN	Mercury Milan	$170	$101	$69	0.6 Hours
April 10, 2024	Eliza, 34 Pittsburgh, PA	Saturn Outlook	$170	$101	$69	0.6 Hours
April 6, 2024	Hattie, 42 Jersey City, NJ	Buick Riviera	$171	$101	$71	0.6 Hours
April 5, 2024	Alberta, 43 Virginia Beach, VA	Hummer H3	$177	$101	$76	0.6 Hours
April 4, 2024	Brent, 45 Papillion, NE	Oldsmobile Intrigue	$174	$101	$73	0.6 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my cooling/radiator fan motor replacement and how much do those parts cost?

There are two types of cooling/ radiator fan motors: mechanical motors and electrical motors. Older vehicles usually include mechanical fan motors while newer vehicles use electrical fan motors.

Your owner’s manual or a certified mechanic will specify the exact type of cooling/ radiator fan motor and parts for your vehicle, but in general, the following parts are required for a cooling/ radiator fan motor replacement:

Cooling/ radiator fan motor: Also known as the main component of this replacement, a cooling/ radiator fan motor is responsible for keeping your vehicle’s engine at the right temperature. The average cost for a cooling/ radiator fan motor is $100 to $500.

Fan shroud: A metal or plastic cover surrounding the fan blades, your fan shroud directs airflow and prevents air loss. A fan shroud can cost between $50 to $200.

Mounting hardware: The fan motor is usually mounted to the cooling/ radiator fan using bolts and screws. Loose or corroded bolts and screws can result in a malfunctioning cooling/ radiator fan motor. You can purchase replacement bolts and screws for $20 to $40.

Fan blades: The fan blades are fan motor attachments that move air across the radiator. Damaged, cracked, or malfunctioning blades will need to be replaced. On average, fan blades cost $20 to $100.

Radiator fan fuse: If your cooling/ radiator fan motor isn’t working, it may be due to a blown radiator fan fuse. If the fuse is the issue, it’ll need to be replaced. On its own, a new radiator fuse can cost anywhere from $20 to $130.

Wiring: Your cooling/ radiator fan motor is typically connected to the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) through wires and connectors. A broken or faulty wire or connector may be the cause of a failing cooling/ radiator fan motor. New wires usually come in sets or kits, which can cost anywhere between $15 to $150.

Fan relay: Your radiator cooling fan uses a relay to control the power supply to the vehicle’s cooling fans. If your relay is not working properly, it will affect the entire cooling/ radiator fan assembly. A replacement fan relay costs approximately $10 to $50.

You can buy cooling radiator fan motor parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. Three of our recommended brands for cooling radiator fan motor parts are TYC, Dorman, and Flex-a-lite. Keep in mind that the specific parts and brands required for your vehicle varies based on its year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

If you need to replace your cooling/ radiator fan motor, your best option is to choose an OEM replacement part. While aftermarket parts can sometimes be cheaper, they tend to fail earlier than OEM parts, which cost more in the long run.

OEM cooling/ radiator fan motors are also specifically designed for their designated vehicles, which ensures optimal functioning and avoids wear and tear.

Where can I buy parts for my cooling/ radiator fan motor replacement?

You can purchase cooling/ radiator fan motor replacements from auto body shops, auto parts shops, like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, or request a special order from your vehicle’s dealership. Online sources like Amazon also offer cooling/ radiator fan motor replacements.

Pro tip: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for replacement specs to help you find the right parts.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my cooling/radiator fan motor replaced?

If you aren’t sure where to get your cooling/ radiator fan motor replaced, don’t worry!

Jerry's GarageGuard™

can help find the right shop by comparing costs from over 2,500 vetted repair shops in the US.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from each shop using their real hourly labor rate. With GarageGuard™, you can plan ahead for diagnostic fees (and find out if it’s included in the service cost), and read through real reviews to help you choose the best shop for your replacement.

Take a look at some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

103 Reviews

Pep Boys Auto Parts & Service - Decatur #670

5380 Covington Hwy,, Decatur, GA

Cooling Radiator Fan Motor Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$426

(Parts - $278, Labor - $148)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (770) 322-0300

115 Reviews

On The Go Tires

(Mobile repair service), Fort Myers, FL

Cooling Radiator Fan Motor Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$364

(Parts - $278, Labor - $86)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$75

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (239) 940-3250

115 Reviews

University Tire & Auto Service

2908 Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA

Cooling Radiator Fan Motor Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$440

(Parts - $278, Labor - $162)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$180

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (323) 733-1236

188 Reviews

Discount Tire & Service Centers - Huntington Beach

7582 Warner Ave, Huntington, CA

Cooling Radiator Fan Motor Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$429

(Parts - $278, Labor - $151)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (714) 842-0239

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my cooling/radiator fan motor?

If your engine is overheating, your air conditioner isn’t working properly, or you hear a loud noise coming from your engine bay, you’ll need to bring your vehicle to a mechanic for an inspection and diagnosis. If your cooling/ radiator fan motor is the issue, your mechanic will follow these replacement steps:

Inspection: Your mechanic will scan your vehicle’s computer for diagnostic trouble codes. They will also test your fuses and relays, and analyze the area surrounding your cooling/ radiator fan motor. There may be some parts that obstruct access to the motor, so your mechanic will need to remove any clips, bolts, wiring, or screws that impede access.

Disconnect the battery: Your battery will need to be disconnected to prevent the cooling/ radiator fan motor from turning on during the replacement process.

Remove obstructions: Any wires, hoses or clips that obstruct access to the cooling/ radiator fan motor will now be removed.

Disconnect the electrical connector: Your cooling/ radiator fan motor uses an electrical connector, which will be disconnected for the job.

Remove mounting: cooling/ radiator fan assemblies, including the motor, are held by mounting or securing hardware. This hardware will be removed so your mechanic can access your fan motor.

Remove the cooling/ radiator fan motor: If all obstructions and mounting hardware were removed correctly, your cooling/ radiator fan motor will be available for removal as well. This includes removing the fan blade nut or clip, which attaches the motor to the fan blade. Your fan blade will be removed, and then the bolts and screws holding the fan motor in place will also be taken out. Your motor is the last part that will be removed from the assembly.

Installation: Your mechanic will verify that the sizing and positioning of the new fan aligns with your vehicle. Next, they will install the new fan motor and reinstall any assembly hardware that was removed for the replacement. The fan blade will also be reinstalled, and your electrical connectors and battery will be reconnected.

Testing: To verify that the cooling/ radiator fan motor was correctly replaced, your mechanic will start the engine. They’ll listen for unusual noises, check the air conditioning, and monitor the engine’s temperature to ensure the job is complete.

What happens if I don’t replace my cooling/radiator fan motor?

A failing cooling/ radiator fan motor should be replaced immediately. If you do not replace your cooling/ radiator fan motor, you could experience any of the following issues:

Overheating engine

Permanent engine damage

Blown motor

Head gasket damage

Overheating vehicle interior

What is a cooling/radiator fan motor?

The cooling/ radiator fan is an important part of your vehicle’s cooling system, which keeps your engine at operable temperatures.

The cooling/ radiator fan motor powers the fan blade to dissipate the extra heat absorbed by the coolant passing through the entire engine. The fan can be found in the engine compartment, usually at the front or rear of the radiator. This prevents the engine from getting too hot when it is burning fuel.

A broken cooling/ radiator fan motor will not lower the temperature of the engine, causing it to overheat. While there is no immediate danger, the engine can seize at extreme temperatures, as the piston can weld itself to the cylinder.

When should I replace the cooling/radiator fan motor on my car?

The most common symptoms of a failing cooling/ radiator fan motor include:

Overheating engine: Your cooling/ radiator fan motor is responsible for cooling down your vehicle’s engine. If you notice that the temperature gauge on your dashboard is consistently high, it’s likely due to a faulty cooling/ radiator fan motor.

Improper air conditioner function: If your A/C is blowing hot air and is not cooling down, there may be something wrong with your cooling/ radiator fan motor.

Quiet fans: When your cooling/ radiator fan motor is down, you won’t hear the airflow from the fans. If your vehicle is especially quiet, you should have your cooling/ radiator fan motor inspected.

Check engine light: Your check engine light may be the result of a faulty cooling/ radiator fan motor.

In some cases, your cooling fan fuse may be the culprit for the symptoms listed above. Your mechanic will run a diagnostic test to uncover the true cause of your vehicle’s symptoms.

How often should a cooling/radiator fan motor be replaced?

For nearly all vehicles, there is no replacement schedule for cooling/ radiator fan motors. In fact, most cooling/ radiator fan motors are constructed to last the lifespan of the vehicle.

Keep in mind: While your cooling/ radiator fan motor is made to last, the deterioration of other vehicle components may lead to cooling/ radiator fan motor wear and tear.

Can I replace my cooling/radiator fan motor myself?

If you’re handy with DIY car repairs, you may be able to replace your cooling/ radiator fan motor yourself. However, your cooling fan assembly is slightly intricate and replacing your radiator fan motor requires a meticulous understanding of your vehicle’s interworking components.

Typically, it’s best to let a certified mechanic perform a cooling/ radiator fan motor replacement.

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FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a radiator fan motor?

On average, a cooling/ radiator fan motor costs $368 to replace. The total cost is made up of $242 for parts and $126 for labor.

Keep in mind the exact replacement price will depend on your vehicle.

How do I know if my radiator fan motor is bad?

If your cooling/ radiator fan motor is failing, you may notice any of the following signs or symptoms:

Your check engine light is on

Your engine’s temperature is high

Your A/C is not functioning properly

Your fans don’t sound like they’re working

Can I drive my car with a broken radiator fan?

Yes, you can drive your car with a broken cooling/ radiator fan motor, but you shouldn’t. While your vehicle will still operate with a broken radiator fan, your engine will be under constant stress if it’s overheating every time you drive.

Putting excessive stress on your engine could lead to permanent engine damage, head gasket damage, or a blown motor.

What causes a radiator fan to break?

Typically, cooling/ radiator fan motors break due to one of the following issues:

A broken wire

A bad relay

A blown fuse

A faulty coolant temperature sensor

What happens if a radiator fan breaks?

If your cooling/ radiator fan breaks, your engine could overheat, which may cause permanent engine damage. If you notice issues with your radiator fan, have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.