Disengaging your Chevy Silverado’s engine didn’t shut off its fans. Now you’re looking at the pickup, thinking why the fans aren’t turning off. Also, what can you do to solve this problem? We researched these concerns for your convenience and here’s what we found.
Your first step is to troubleshoot the Chevy Silverado's fan that doesn't deactivate to find the source of the problem. Then, you can use the appropriate steps to restore your Chevy Silverado’s fans’ normal functions. Take note that different possible suspects exist that can be the reasons why your vehicle’s fans continue to run, even after turning off the engine. Some of these potential culprits are:
- Faulty fan resistor
- Damaged wires
- Bad fan motor relay switch
- Temperature sensor malfunction
So continue reading as we talk about these possible reasons for a Silverado’s fans to continue turning even after disengaging the engine. We’ll also tackle some potential solutions that may help you in solving this problem.
Why Won't My Chevy Silverado Fan Turn Off?
You should assess your current confidence and skill level before attempting to do any troubleshooting or repair job on your Chevy Silverado. Contact skilled industry professionals if the fear of making mistakes is preventing you from making appropriate decisions.
After taking note of the precautions, keep reading to know the possible suspects to your Chevy Silverado’s fan failing to shut off:
Faulty Fan Resistor
Also called the blower motor resistor, this component controls the fan’s speed. If it fails, the engine fan may not receive the command to disengage. So the fan will continue to run even if you placed its switch to the off position on the Silverado’s center console.
Damaged Wires
The wiring connected to the fan’s resistor can also receive harm if the assembly encounters damage. For instance, the fan’s failure to shut off may cause the assembly to overheat. This instance might lead to the attached wires stripping, causing a short-circuit that makes the fan continue to run.
Bad Fan Motor Relay Switch
Generally located in a blower or fan motor, the relay switch functions by circulating warmed air within the vehicle. It’s an on/off switch that helps other systems to normalize and stabilize the Silverado’s internal temperature.
But harm to the relay switch may prevent the fan from shutting off. The issue may lie within the switch’s inability to turn to the off position upon receiving the command from the user.
Temperature Sensor Failure
A vehicle’s thermostat or temperature sensor is responsible for regulating the engine’s heat. This component has components that connect to the radiator fan, allowing that part to work when needed.
But a fault in the temperature sensor may give the wrong reading to the fan. If so, the connected fan may continue to spin, which might happen even when no one is driving the truck.
How Do You Stop A Chevy Silverado’s Fan That Won’t Shut Off?
In this section, you’ll learn the general steps to repair your Chevy Silverado’s fan based on the results of your troubleshooting:
Replace The Fan Motor Resistor
Make sure to purchase a compatible blower or fan motor resistor for your specific Chevrolet Silverado model. Installing an incompatible resistor to a different Chevy Silverado may result in serious harm to the vehicle.
What You’ll Need
- Socket wrench
- Torx driver
- Replacement fan motor resistor
Step-by-Step Guide
- Remove the bolts securing the panel that’s underneath the dashboard by the passenger’s side in the vehicle’s cabin.
- Disconnect the cables attached to the faulty resistor module.
- Unscrew the Torx screws from the resistor module. Pull out the assembly afterward.
- Install the new fan motor resistor and secure it.
- Reconnect the cables you removed earlier to the new resistor module.
- Test the Chevy Silverado’s fan by turning the A/C on and off.
Check out this replacement fan motor resistor on Amazon.
You can also see a visual guide for the steps mentioned above by watching this video:
Replace The Temperature Sensor
Consult with your vehicle’s owner’s manual if you need help accessing the temperature sensor in your Silverado. Another option is to contact your truck dealer or the vehicle’s manufacturer’s customer support hotline.
Once you know how to access your Silverado’s thermostat, continue this procedure by following these steps:
What You’ll Need
- Socket and ratchet wrenches
- Slip jaw pliers
- Drain pan
- Coolant
- Replacement temperature sensor
Step-by-Step Guide
- Place the drain pan directly underneath the radiator assembly.
- Drain the coolant by undoing the radiator hose’s spring clamp with the pliers.
- Return and secure the hose to the radiator.
- Pull out the connector attached to the temperature sensor.
- Remove the bolt fastening the temperature sensor with the socket wrench.
- Install and secure the new temperature sensor to the radiator block.
- Reattach the connector.
- Refill the coolant reservoir with a fresh batch.
- Turn on the Silverado’s engine and turn it off afterward to check if the problem persists.
Check out this replacement temperature sensor on Amazon.
Watch the video below to gain additional insight into this replacement job:
Also, the following video will help you choose which coolant to use for your car:
What Are The Symptoms Of A Faulty Radiator Fan?
Aside from the fan failing to turn off, other signs that your Silverado’s fan may need immediate attention are:
- Increased temperature in the engine block
- Inefficient air conditioner performance
- Unknown noise coming from the radiator assembly
- The engine warning light doesn't go away
- Burnt circuit fuse
Can I Drive Car If Radiator Fan Is Not Working?
It’s possible to drive vehicles, including the Chevy Silverado, even if the radiator fan is malfunctioning or isn’t working at all. But perhaps the best option is to park your car in a safe spot and request help from a towing service. Prolonged usage of your vehicle while the radiator fan isn’t functioning can lead to irreparable harm.
What Is The Maintenance Cost For A Chevy Silverado?
Maintenance costs for a Chevy Silverado, which may include checking and repairing its fans, may cost around $95 to $4,634. But Silverado owners should expect to pay approximately $10,003 for maintenance and repairs on their vehicles during the first decade of use.
How Long Is A Chevy Warranty?
Chevrolet's warranty period for its vehicles often depends on the type of policy acquired by the policyholder:
- Bumper-To-Bumper: Provides coverage for the entire vehicle, and lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
- Powertrain: Typically covers components like the engine, transmission, and drive systems. It’s also available for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
- Emission Control Systems: The period for this warranty depends on the type of Chevy vehicle. Owners should expect this guarantee to last for 3 to 15 years or 50,000 to 150,000 miles.
Final Words
The first step to restoring your Chevy Silverado’s fans’ normal functions is to find the reason why they won’t shut off. Then, use the correct repair and/or replacement steps to fix the issue. Remember, automotive technicians exist to help solve this problem if you believe you don’t have the confidence, expertise, or skill to go through with the job.
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