My 2020 Mini Countryman Hybrid is overheating. The check engine light also came on. Could a defective speed sensor really be the culprit behind a defective radiator fan, causing all this?

Mini Countryman Hybrid Overheating Issue

Overheating and the check engine light could point to several things. Has the car radiator been checked? Is the fan motor running at all, or does it seem weak? A defective speed sensor could definitely cause issues with temperature control by not properly adjusting the fan speed. Have you scanned for any specific error codes?

Thanks for the quick response. I haven't scanned for error codes yet. When you say 'the fan motor running at all' do you mean visually inspect it to see if it's spinning?

Visually inspecting the fan is a good start, yes. But even if it's spinning, it might not be at the correct speed. Given the overheating and check engine light, plus your suspicion of the speed sensor, I would recommend getting a proper diagnostic scan done at a workshop. They can pinpoint the exact problem with the engine cooling system and radiator fan.

Just wanted to give an update. The Mini Countryman was taken to the workshop, and you were spot on. They confirmed it was the radiator fan and the speed sensor was indeed faulty. Total cost was around 250€, including parts and labor. Engine cooling seems to be back to normal now. Thanks for your help!