Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Cooling Fan
The cooling fan and viscous drive actuator valve controls the fluid flow from the reservoir into the working chamber. Once viscous fluid is in the working chamber, shearing of the fluid results in fan rotation. The valve is activated by a pulse width modulation (PWM) output signal from the PCM. By opening and closing the fluid port valve, the PCM controls the fan speed. Fan speed is measured through a Hall effect sensor, and is monitored by the PCM during closed loop operation. The PCM optimizes the fan speed based on the engine coolant temperature, the engine oil temperature, the fuel rail temperature, the transmission fluid temperature, the intake air temperature, or air conditioning requirements. When an increased demand for fan speed is requested for vehicle cooling, the PCM monitors the fan speed through the Hall effect sensor. If a fan speed increase is required, the PCM outputs the PWM signal to the fluid port, providing the required fan speed increase. During the key on, engine running (KOER) self-test, the PCM commands a 100% duty cycle. A DTC sets if the PCM detects the voltage on the valve control circuit is not within the expected range or if the fan speed is less than a calibrated value.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.