Cooling system fan not working properly

1992 HONDA ACCORD
160,000 MILES
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JIMMY CURLEE
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
My coolant fan is only working when my air conditioner is on. I've checked the relays and fuses everything is good there when I shut the car off the fan runs for 10 minutes but never comes on during operation. I can't find the schematics for the coolant temperature switches and all the other switches that I need to check what can I do. please help me.
Sep 13, 2020 at 4:00 AM
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DANNY L
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

Your car should have 2 electric fans.One fan will come on and stay on continuously when you have the air conditioner on.The second fan which you say is not working should come on when the engine is running to prevent overheating.That will be controlled by the coolant temperature sensor.It sounds like that switch is defective or not working.Here are a few tutorials for you to view showing its replacement and operation:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-coolant-temperature-sensor-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-coolant-temperature-sensor

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-temperature-sensor-cts-replacement

I've attached a picture below showing its location on your car.It's near the distributor and thermostat housing.Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Sep 13, 2020 at 8:48 AM
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JIMMY CURLEE
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Okay, thanks. There's also a coolant fan switch on front of the car and the plastic housing is all broke up but I've checked it for good contact. How do I check to see if that sensor or the power supply going to the other one is good?
Sep 13, 2020 at 10:00 AM
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DANNY L
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello again.

If you can use your cell phone and take a picture of the broken plastic housing to see what you're talking about and upload it here.Hope this helps and thanks again for using 2CarPros.

Danny-
Sep 15, 2020 at 9:45 AM
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