VW T-Cross Radiator Fan Failure Causing Engine Overheat

As the owner of a VW T-Roc 2019 gasoline model, I dealt with nearly identical symptoms. With some experience working on VW cooling systems, I can share my recent repair journey. The symptoms matched exactly, engine overheating, check engine light, and a silent fan motor. Initially thought it was the thermal switch, but after taking it to my regular workshop, they diagnosed a faulty speed sensor that wasnt properly triggering the cooling fan. The repair took about 3 hours and cost me 250€ total, including parts and labor. Since the fix, the fan noise is back to normal and no more overheating issues. Before suggesting specific fixes, could you share: Current mileage on your T-Cross, When did you first notice the fan stopped working, Any unusual sounds before the fan stopped, Temperature gauge readings when the problem occurs This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my T-Roc. The cooling system on these models is similar, but there can be variations that affect the repair approach.

I checked my service records, last maintenance was at 115000km in March. Currently at 117297km. The fan actually stopped working gradually over the past week. No unusual sounds before it went silent. The temperature gauge hits the red zone after about 15-20 minutes of city driving, especially in slow traffic. The engine cooling warning light comes on around the same time. I appreciate the detailed cost breakdown. 250€ seems reasonable if its a similar issue. Did your workshop mention any other common cooling system failures they typically see on these VW models? The fan blade and visual components all look fine, so Im leaning toward an electrical issue with either the fan motor or thermal switch.

Thanks for the detailed info. Your mileage and symptoms mirror my experience even closer than I initially thought. The gradual fan failure pattern matches exactly what happened with my T-Roc. My workshop explained that on these VW models, the fan motor and thermal switch often show signs of wear around 110000-120000km. In my case, while the speed sensor was the main culprit, they also found minor corrosion on the thermal switch connections. Based on your description of city driving problems, it sounds identical to my situation. The radiator fan plays a crucial role in engine cooling during low-speed driving when theres less natural airflow. The timing of the temperature spike (15-20 minutes) is another typical indicator of fan motor issues in these models. My mechanic mentioned three common cooling system failures they regularly see: 1. Speed sensor malfunction (my case), 250€ fix 2. Thermal switch failure, around 200€ repair 3. Complete fan motor replacement, costs between 350-450€ Since your symptoms developed gradually like mine, Id bet on either the speed sensor or thermal switch rather than a total fan motor failure. These electrical components tend to deteriorate slowly rather than fail suddenly. Would definitely suggest getting it checked soon, especially given your daily driving patterns. The repair costs I mentioned were from 6 months ago, but they should still be in the same range.

Thanks for the helpful feedback. The gradual failure pattern you described definitely matches my situation. Given the similar mileage and symptoms, Im feeling more confident about the likely repair costs. Will schedule a workshop visit this week to check the speed sensor and thermal switch first, since those seem to be the most likely culprits causing the car overheating. The fact that the fan noise disappeared gradually rather than suddenly makes me hopeful its not a complete fan motor failure. Really appreciate the detailed cost breakdown, helps me budget between 200-450€ depending on which component needs replacing. Good to know these electrical issues are somewhat common around this mileage point. Just going to monitor the temperature gauge closely and avoid extended city driving until I can get it checked. The radiator cooling system clearly needs attention soon, but at least I have a better idea of what to expect at the workshop now.