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fabian_moeller7

Crafter Diesel Fan Failure Causing Engine Overheating

My Crafter diesel keeps overheating and showing check engine light. The radiator fan seems to run erratically, sometimes not spinning at all even when the engine is hot. Not sure if its the fan motor, fan blade, or something else in the engine cooling system. Already got burned by a mechanic who didnt fix the issue. Anyone dealt with similar symptoms on their van? Its a 2015 model with 197910KM.

Summary of the thread

The Crafter diesel is experiencing engine overheating and erratic radiator fan operation, with the check engine light illuminated. The problem may stem from a faulty thermal switch and a failing temperature control module, which are crucial for proper fan and cooling system function. Solutions include replacing the thermal switch and temperature control module, as these components can cause the fan to malfunction and lead to overheating. Proper diagnosis and repair have resolved similar issues, restoring normal engine cooling and eliminating the check engine light.

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4 comment(s)

maximilianhoffmann20

Had the exact same overheating issue on my 2012 VW Transporter 2.0 TDI. The car overheating symptoms started similarly, radiator fan running inconsistently and engine temperature climbing rapidly. Initial diagnosis pointed to the fan motor, but after thorough testing, it turned out the temperature control module was failing. The module wasnt sending proper signals to activate the cooling system. This caused the radiator fan to malfunction, leading to engine overheating. The repair required replacing both the temperature control module and speed sensor, as they work as a connected system. Without the correct sensor input, the cooling system cant regulate properly. It was a serious issue that could have led to engine damage if left unaddressed. The fix solved both the erratic fan behavior and the check engine light. Engine cooling returned to normal immediately after repair. Worth noting that a proper diagnosis requires testing both electrical and mechanical components of the cooling system, not just assuming its the fan motor. Going by the symptoms described, strongly suggest getting the temperature sensors checked before replacing any mechanical parts. These electrical issues often masquerade as mechanical failures in the engine cooling system.

fabian_moeller7 (community.author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. These fan control issues can be tricky to diagnose. Mine got resolved by replacing the thermal switch and temperature control module. The new parts restored proper function to the radiator fan and cooling system. Did your repair hold up well since then? Just curious about the total cost of your fix too, as Im tracking repair expenses for similar cooling system issues.

maximilianhoffmann20

The repair has worked perfectly since getting it fixed professionally. The radiator fan now kicks in exactly when needed, maintaining proper engine temperature even during hot weather or heavy loads. The faulty speed sensor replacement cost 250€, which seems fair considering the diagnostic work involved. Looking back, the entire cooling system has been trouble-free for over 8 months now. No more erratic fan behavior or overheating concerns. The car radiator and fan motor are working together smoothly, showing how important that speed sensor is for proper temperature regulation. Its definitely worth spending on quality parts and proper diagnosis when dealing with cooling system issues. The fan noise problems and irregular operation completely disappeared after the repair. The investment in fixing it right saved me from potential engine damage down the road.

fabian_moeller7 (community.author)

Thanks for the update. I took my van to a certified mechanic last week who properly diagnosed the issue. The thermal switch was completely dead and the temperature control module was failing intermittently. Total repair came to 460€ including parts and labor. The car hasnt shown any signs of overheating since the fix. The radiator fan now cycles normally and the engine cooling system works exactly as it should. No more check engine light either. Wish I had gone to this shop first instead of wasting money at the other place that just cleaned the radiator and replaced the coolant. I keep a much closer eye on the temperature gauge now, but everything is running perfectly. Good to hear your repair has lasted 8 months, gives me confidence this was the right fix for my cooling system issues too.

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VW

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CRAFTER