How Long Does a Fan Clutch Last?

One of the most important parts within the cooling system of your vehicle is the fan clutch. It’s not a part that comes up often, as it’s usually pretty consistent. However, if this part should stop working the entire cooling system in your car is affected. To get specific the fan clutch is responsible for determining the speed at which the cooling fan spins against the vehicle's radiator. Depending on what's wrong with your fan clutch, it may stop spinning all together or it may just not spin at the right speed. What this means is that the engine won't properly be cooled.

There is no set mileage that this part will last, rather it’s important to watch for early warning signs that it may be giving out. While there are times you can repair the fan clutch, in most instances it's best to replace it. At the same time it's wise to take a look at your cooling fan and radiator to be sure they are both working properly. You can have a professional mechanic take a closer look to determine what needs to be done.

Here are some typical symptoms of a fan clutch that is nearing or has reached the end of its lifespan:

  • If you start to hear noises coming from the engine compartment of your vehicle, this is definitely a sign you shouldn't ignore. To be more specific it may sound like clicking or scraping.

  • If you start to notice vibrating or rattling coming from the engine compartment, this is another warning sign that you'll want to take seriously.

  • Your engine may have a hard time cooling down (overheating) or heating up since the fan clutch isn’t working. The longer you wait to have the problem diagnosed, and repaired, the more it affects the efficiency of your engine.

The fan clutch ensures that your engine is cooled when it needs to be, and prevents it from overheating. While this fan doesn’t have a set lifespan, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs should it start to fail. This is a part you’ll need to fix/replace as soon as possible once it gives out. If you’re experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms and suspect your fan clutch is in need of replacement, get a diagnostic or book a fan clutch replacement service with a certified mechanic.


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Recent Fan Clutch Replacement reviews

Excellent Rating

(107)

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John

33 years of experience
1126 reviews
John
33 years of experience
Dodge Dakota V6-3.9L - Fan Clutch - Alvin, Texas
John was early as usual and ready to go. He did an excellent job and the truck is running so much better than it has in a while.
Jaguar XJS - Fan Clutch - Houston, Texas
John is great. He is friendly and did a perfect job using the parts I provided. A lot of shop mechanics will not work on my car, but to John it was absolutely no problem.

David

17 years of experience
56 reviews
David
17 years of experience
Dodge Ram 2500 L6-5.9L Turbo Diesel - Fan Clutch - Elk Grove, California
Showed up and right off the bat I could tell he was extremely knowledgeable. He worked very hard and when he didn't have the right part drove to the local part store and got it. Worked in the heat despite how hot it got and was always smiling. Would totally book David again.
Chevrolet Trailblazer - Fan Clutch - Sacramento, California
David was timely and knew what he was doing and got right to it. I admit I was a little apprehensive prior to the work being done but David exceeded my expectations! A coworker of mine was equally impressed and will also use David for a future car repair as well. Great job David.

Michael

9 years of experience
5 reviews
Michael
9 years of experience
Buick Rainier L6-4.2L - Fan Clutch - Weirsdale, Florida
Michael was excellent not only did he show me the new parts he also showed me the old parts, I was very thankful for that as it was to send to my brother as he requested. He explained everything to me and he was quite patient with me again thankful for that as well. Like I said and another comment he’s a great guy, and performed the job and just a few hours. Thanks Michael for your professionalism and a job well done.

Scott

39 years of experience
607 reviews
Scott
39 years of experience
Dodge Ram 1500 V8-5.7L - Fan Clutch - Arvada, Colorado
Very knowledgeable, took less time than I expected considering if I had done the job myself. It probably took me at least half a day. Not having to take my vehicle in and leave it at a shop is big plus.

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