cooling fans not working

[bboynton]

My 2000 VR6 Jetta overheated today on the frwy (2nd time). I noticed the cooling fans were not running, either one. I think there is a module that controls this but I don't know where it is or even if I need to change it or something else is going on. My mechanic replaced my water pump last winter, so this may very well be related. Any help is appreciated!

[ctesla]

Originally Posted by bboynton

My 2000 VR6 Jetta overheated today on the frwy (2nd time). I noticed the cooling fans were not running, either one. I think there is a module that controls this but I don't know where it is or even if I need to change it or something else is going on. My mechanic replaced my water pump last winter, so this may very well be related. Any help is appreciated!

although the water pump might be an issue, I doubt it, since you have not had overheating 'til now. however, when the mechanic changed the pump, did they suggest or change the thermostat?
their again though, if the fans are not running (even with A/C on) then yes, probably electrical:
start with fuses (least expensive)
a fuse tester can be found at parts houses and wal-mart for under $5.
after fuses, work to relays
(find the high or low side fan relay and swap it with something else that is identical that you know works; example: starter relay or horn, or A/C and heater blower fan)
...if the fan comes on, you found the problem, a $15-50 relay; if not
I don't think BOTH fans would go bad at the same time, so possibly a coolant fan sensor on the block, fan switch, or temp sending unit could be faulty and not telling the fans to come on.

if this is a daily driver, until you isolate the problem, you could run some speaker wire straight from your battery to the high side fan, and not only rule out the fans operation, but allow limited driving until your problem is fixed (just don't forget the speaker wire, or have a dead battery AND possibly a burnt out fan motor)

hope this helps,
ctesla

[veedubmechanic]

Soundsl like the coolant fan fuse is blown ( on top of battery 40a pannel fuse)