Where is the cooling fan clutch on a car?

Newer vehicles feature electric cooling fans controlled by a relay, but older vehicles are likely equipped with a clutch style fan. The cooling fan clutch is part of the cooling system that engages or disengages the fan depending on the engine temperature. It is typically bolted between the water pump pulley and the fan.

Is the fan pulley connected to the water pump?

The engine cooling fan, made of plastic or metal, isn’t hard-connected to the fan pulley or water pump, but instead is soft-connected via the fan clutch. A properly-functioning fan clutch is critical to engine reliability, as it works to maintain a safe temperature range.

What are the different types of fan clutches?

Types of Fan Clutches. The main types are non-thermal, thermal, and electronic — all of which use a silicone fluid to engage and disengage your fan. Non-thermal clutches operate solely based on the shaft speed of the water pump. At low and idling speeds, the clutch allows the fan blade to turn at almost a 1:1 ratio.

How can I tell if my fan clutch is on the outs?

Detecting Problems While Driving Pay attention to changes in air temperature. One of the most common symptoms of a fan clutch on the outs is an inability to properly cool the air circulating through the vehicle. Listen for excessive noise when driving at high speeds.

What causes oil to come out of a fan clutch?

Run your finger along the edges of the bearing seal on the backside of the fan clutch. If it comes away with a heavy coating of oil, the culprit is either a crack or a faulty seal. Radial streaks are another potential clue—this happens when oil escapes from the clutch and is then blown outward in all directions by the fan.