2001 Montana with radiator fan problem

[macgyver71]

I started my van this evening and noticed the engine was louder. Turns out the radiator fans were on. The van had been off for about 4 hours and the engine was cold.

Didn't think nothing of it and I hit the highway. About 10 minutes into my trip, the check engine light came on and I also noticed that the temperature gauge had not moved and was still reading cold.

I figure that it must be some sort of sensor for the fans.

Has this happened to any of you? Could a faulty sensor cause the check engine light to come on?

Any help appreciated.

Thanks

[Glen_T]

I'd suggest taking it down to AutoZone and get the codes read. From there, you can see what is wrong. A bad temp sensor sounds likely.....Good luck, GLen

[GregA]

Originally Posted by Glen_T

I'd suggest taking it down to AutoZone and get the codes read. From there, you can see what is wrong. A bad temp sensor sounds likely.....Good luck, GLen

I agree with Glen.

One thing you could check. If the van was running for about 15 minutes or more, and the upper radiator hose is HOT (or very warm), AND the gauge has not moved up at all, that would be a hint (to me anyway) that the sensor is not working right. Could be just a loose connection too.

Here is some more information about the cooling system, if you are interested. Of particular interest is the part where certain Diagnostic Test Codes (DTCs) can cause the fans to run on HIGH all the time

Venture Cooling System Fans

Take Care,

[macgyver71]

Problem now fixed, it was the temperature sensor. I did however have to take it to a garage to have the code erased before the fans and temp gauge could work normally guees again. One would think that the PCM would be smart enough to detect that a fault is corrected but I guess not.