Where to Find the Cooling Fan Switch on Your Subaru: A Step-by-Step Guide

The cooling fan switch on a Subaru is located in the fuse box by the driver’s side of the engine compartment.

Subaru Cooling Fan Switch Location

Subaru cooling fan switch location is a crucial element to consider when replacing or repairing a faulty cooling system. The switch, if defective, can lead to various issues such as overheating, inadequate airflow and environmental damages. Knowing the exact location of the fan switch is essential to ensure a safe and effective repair.

The Subaru cooling fan switch can be located in four primary places: in front of the radiator, on the side of the radiator, on the passenger side hoses, or in the engine compartment. Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, you may find that it’s located somewhere else as well. Before examining any other location, however, take time to look in these four areas to determine which one your Subie houses its own fan switch.

If your Subaru’s cooling switch is located in front of the radiator typically visible near the bottom hose check for loose connection points and for any signs of burnt material on its body before testing it. If it appears corroded or badly damaged, replace it with an original manufacturer-approved replacement part immediately.

If located near or on the side of your Subaru’s radiator, you will likely notice two wires attached to your existing cooling fan switch. Don’t touch these wires; if you find that they don’t function properly after inspection, immediately replace them with new ones compatible with your vehicle’s model and specifications.

If you locate your Subaru’s cooling fan switch attached to its lower passenger-side hoses usually next to both heater core hoses inspect them closely for signs of damage or breakage before attempting any replacements. If they appear corroded or broken at all then those parts should also be replaced prior to further testing.

Finally, if you find that your Subaru’s cooling fan switch is placed inside Engine Compartment – next to both battery terminals – ascertain whether there are load terminals attached before inspecting it further as different models require varying load ratings for their switches which could affect their overall performance over time. Again if any signs of corrosion or damage exist substitute them with oem approved parts right away.

Adequately locating and inspecting Subaru Cooling Fan Switch in each place guarantees safe repair and operation and prevents overheating & environmental damages which are potentially hazardous and expensive otherwise.

Subaru Cooling Fan Switch Location

The cooling fan switch in a Subaru is an important component in the cooling system. It helps regulate the temperature of the engine, preventing it from overheating. The location of the cooling fan switch depends on the model and year of your Subaru vehicle. Generally, it is located near or on the radiator or on the engine block. To inspect this part, you will need to open up your hood and locate the switch.

What is it?

The cooling fan switch is a sensor that detects when your engine is getting too hot and triggers a relay to turn on the fan to keep it from overheating. It consists of a thermistor sensing element connected to an electrical circuit. When the temperature rises above a certain point, usually around 212 degrees Fahrenheit, this activates the circuit and turns on the fan.

Why is it Important?

The cooling fan switch plays an important role in regulating engine temperature and preventing damage due to excessive heat build-up. Without it, your engine could overheat quickly and potentially cause major damage including piston seizures, head gasket failure, cracked cylinder heads, and more. It’s important to make sure that your cooling fan switch is functioning properly so that your engine can maintain its optimal operating temperature range and run smoothly for years to come.

Potential Cooling Fan Switch Issues

One of the most common issues with a cooling fan switch is overheating due to a faulty sensor or relay not activating when needed. This can be caused by a variety of factors including faulty wiring, corrosion buildup on contacts, or dirt accumulation on components like sensors or relays. Another potential issue with a cooling fan switch can be unreliable temperature measurement due to incorrect calibration or improper installation of components like thermistors or relays which can lead to inaccurate readings and unexpected behavior from your vehicle’s cooling system.

Troubleshooting a Cooling Fan Switch Problem

When troubleshooting any issue with your vehicle’s cooling system, it’s important to have access to diagnostic tools such as multimeters and code readers that can help you identify any underlying problems with components like sensors or relays before you start making repairs. A systematic approach should be taken when investigating issues with a cooling fan switchfirst checking for visible signs of damage such as corrosion before moving onto testing components for proper function using diagnostic tools such as multimeters or code readers if necessary. If repairs are needed, make sure all new parts are rated appropriately for use in your vehicles year/model/engine combination and installed correctly according to manufacturer guidelines before proceeding further into troubleshooting any other systems related issues that could be affecting your cars performance as well as its overall reliability over time.

Signs that Indicate a Failed Cooling Fan Switch

When trying to determine if there may be an issue with your vehicles cooling fan switch, looking for certain behaviors may help you identify potential problems before they become serious problems down the line. Engine performance changes such as increased fuel consumption or power loss could indicate an improperly functioning coolant system due to inadequate air flow caused by malfunctioning fans not activating properly when neededthis should be further investigated using diagnostic tools if suspected further issues are present beyond just visible signs of damage such as corrosion buildup on contacts/connectors/etc.. Other behaviors caused by bad switches include fans turning on even when temperatures are at normal levels or not turning off after temperatures drop back down below normal ranges which would also require further investigation using factory-approved diagnostic equipment if necessary in order get accurate readings about whats going on inside your cars engine compartment at all times so that any potential problems can be identified early before they lead bigger more expensive repairs down the road later on down the line..

Testing a Cooling Fan Switch on Subaru

Before attempting to locate the cooling fan switch on your Subaru, it is important to verify that it is indeed the culprit behind your cooling system issues. To do this, you should use an OBD-II scanner to scan all of the fault codes. The most common fault codes related to the cooling fan switch are P0117 and P0118. If these codes are present, then you will know that you have a failing fan switch and need to replace it.

Once you have verified that the issue is with the cooling fan switch, you can begin to locate its position on your vehicle. Most Subaru models have their cooling fan switch located near the radiator or in front of the engine compartment. It is usually connected directly to the coolant temperature sensor. This sensor detects when the engine temperature is too high and triggers the fan switch which in turn activates the cooling fans.

Overview of Subaru’s Cooling System

It is important to understand how Subaru’s cooling system works in order to properly diagnose any problems related to it. The main components of this system include an engine coolant pump, an oil cooler, a radiator, and a thermostat. The coolant pump circulates coolant through the radiator which helps keep the engine temperature in check. The oil cooler also helps reduce engine temperatures by transferring heat away from critical components such as pistons and bearings. Finally, the thermostat regulates how much coolant flows through these components by allowing for more or less flow depending on what temperatures are detected by it.

Subaru Recommended Replacement for Bad Cooling Fan Switch

When replacing a bad cooling fan switch on a Subaru, it is best practice to use an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part rather than an aftermarket part as they are designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model and will provide better fitment and performance than any aftermarket part could offer. OEM parts can be purchased directly from authorized dealerships or online retailers such as Amazon or eBay for a reasonable price. Additionally, some aftermarket parts may not be compatible with certain vehicles due to differences in size or wiring harnesses so make sure that you double-check before purchasing any aftermarket parts for your Subaru model.

Identifying Right Replacement Cooling Fan Switch for Subaru

In order to ensure that you get the correct replacement part for your Subaru model, it is necessary to consult third-party manuals such as Chiltons Automotive Repair Manuals or Haynes Automotive Repair Manuals in order to cross reference part numbers with each other and make sure they match up with your vehicles specifications before purchasing them online or at an auto parts store. Additionally, if you are unsure about what type of replacement part you need then make sure that you speak with someone at either an authorized dealership or auto parts store who can help identify what type of replacement part best suits your specific needs and requirements before making any purchases.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is a cooling fan switch in Subaru?
A: The cooling fan switch in Subaru is an electrical component designed to control the engine’s cooling fan. It acts as a switch that turns the fan on and off depending on the engine temperature. When the engine is running hot, the switch will activate and turn on the fan to help cool down the engine.

Q: Where can I find the cooling fan switch in Subaru?
A: The cooling fan switch in Subaru is usually located near or on the radiator. It may also be found in other places such as near the thermostat housing, water pump, or under the hood.

Q: What are some potential issues with a cooling fan switch?
A: Potential issues with a cooling fan switch can include overheating, unreliable temperature measurement, and engine performance changes due to an insufficiently cooled engine.

Q: How can I troubleshoot a failing cooling fan switch?
A: To troubleshoot a failing cooling fan switch, you’ll need diagnostic tools such as an OBD-II scanner and multimeter. You’ll also need to take a systematic approach to repair by performing tests such as checking for power at terminals, continuity checks of wires and components, and voltage drops across components.

Q: What should I consider when purchasing a replacement cooling fan switch for my Subaru?
A: When purchasing a replacement cooling fan switch for your Subaru, you should consider official OEM guidelines and third-party manuals to identify which part matches your vehicles requirements. You should also weigh up pros and cons of aftermarket parts versus OEM parts before making your decision.

The Subaru cooling fan switch is located in the engine compartment near the radiator and is connected to the electrical system. It is an important component of the cooling system, as it helps regulate the temperature of the engine and prevent overheating. Proper maintenance of the switch is essential for keeping your Subaru running smoothly and efficiently.