leoniethunder23

SL Overheating Electric Fan Issue

My 2002 Mercedes SL with a gasoline engine is overheating, especially when idling. It has 65973 km. The radiator fan seems to be the problem, either not turning on or working sometimes. I think it might be a bad cable or plug. Has this happened to anyone else? What should I check before I get it repaired? I'm guessing it will be around 95€.

A 2002 Mercedes SL is experiencing overheating issues, particularly when idling, due to a suspected malfunctioning radiator fan. The fan either doesn't turn on or works intermittently, possibly due to a bad cable or plug. Suggestions include checking the fan relay, temperature sensor, and ensuring the fan receives power by using a multimeter to check for 12V at the fan connector when the engine is hot. Ultimately, the issue was resolved by repairing a bad connection, costing 95€.

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4 comment(s)

Overheating sucks. Sounds like the electric fan is MIA. Had a similar vibe with my old BMW a while back. Check the fan relay and the temp sensor before you blame the whole fan motor. Is the fan getting power? Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the fan connector when the engine's hot. Could be a simple fix before you start throwing money at it.

Thanks for the quick reply. I will check the fan relay and temperature sensor. What voltage should I see at the fan connector when it's supposed to be running? Also, where is the fan relay located? How do I understand the multimeter readings?

Voltage should be around 12V when the engine's hot and the fan's supposed to be running. If you're getting zero, trace back to the relay. The relay location? Check your owner's manual or a wiring diagram – they're usually near the fuse box. Honestly, if you're not comfortable poking around with electrical stuff, just take it to a shop. Save yourself a headache.

Thanks for the advice. I found the relay, but I took it to a mechanic like you said. It was a bad connection, just like I thought. The repair was 95€. Thanks again for your help!

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