1996 Plymouth Neon Fan Not On

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SMD0147
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My 96 Neon has 186,000 miles on it...I've noticed that the fan doesn't come on. As long as I'm driving the car the temperature gauge is okay, but whenever I come to a stop, or @ stoplight, it starts to run hot. What could be the problem?

Also, my speedometer, gas level indicator, etc. doesn't always work...sometimes they work and most of the time they don't. What could be the problem?

Any suggestions.
Mar 10, 2006 at 6:55 AM
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VANDRAGON
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 298 POSTS
if the cooling fan isn't working at all,
sounds like a fan relay, temp sensor,weak charging system or battery connection. as for the speedo, could be the output speed sensor. your biggest problem is a neon with that many miles. i don't recall ever seeing one that didn't blow the head gasket before 80,000. first thing is to get the fan working if you have to hook it up with a toggle switch. also with the car cold, use a water hose and clean between the fins on the radiator. good luck and don't forget to wear your seatbelt! ha ha...
Mar 19, 2006 at 12:31 AM

Suggested Repair

Check the cooling fan relay, coolant temperature sensor, charging system, and battery connections. Get the fan working first, using a toggle switch if needed, and with the engine cold rinse debris from between the radiator fins. Intermittent speedometer and fuel-gauge operation may be caused by the output speed sensor.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1996 Plymouth Neon with 186,000 miles reports that the cooling fan does not come on. Temperature stays normal while driving, but the engine runs hot at stops. The speedometer, fuel gauge, and related indicators also work only intermittently. The expert suggests a fan relay, temperature sensor, weak charging system, or battery connection for the fan issue, and an output speed sensor for the gauges. Immediate advice is to get the fan operating and clean the radiator fins when the car is cold.

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