1. Safety First: Let the engine cool completely before doing any work. Hot coolant can cause severe burns.
2. Check the Obvious:
* Coolant Level: Ensure the coolant reservoir is filled to the proper level. Low coolant can cause overheating, and the fan might be working correctly but there's not enough coolant to cool things down.
* Fuses and Relays: Check the fuses and relays associated with the radiator fan. Your owner's manual will show you their locations and ratings. Use a test light or multimeter to verify if they're getting power. A blown fuse or bad relay is a common cause. Replace any faulty ones with the correct amperage/type.
* Wiring: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the fan motor and relay. Look for any broken, frayed, or corroded wires. Repair or replace any damaged wiring.
3. Test the Fan Motor Directly:
* Disconnect the electrical connector: Carefully disconnect the electrical connector from the radiator fan motor.
* Bypass the Relay/Switch (Use Caution): This step requires some electrical knowledge and should only be attempted if you are comfortable working with car electrical systems. Incorrectly connecting wires can cause damage. You'll need to directly connect power (using jumper wires and a battery) to the fan motor terminals to check if it runs. Observe proper polarity (+ and -) to avoid damage. If the fan runs, the problem lies in the wiring, relay, or fan control switch. If the fan doesn't run, the motor itself may be faulty.
4. Check the Fan Switch/Sensor (Temperature Switch):
* The coolant temperature sensor or a thermostatically controlled switch activates the radiator fan. This switch usually sits in the radiator or engine block. It may be difficult to access, so consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Chevy Cavalier for its location.
* If you're comfortable, you can test the switch with a multimeter to see if it's closing at the proper temperature. Again, consult a repair manual for the correct testing procedure and temperature thresholds.
5. Consider Professional Help:
If you're not comfortable performing these checks or the problem persists after these steps, take your Cavalier to a qualified mechanic. A faulty fan motor, a malfunctioning control module, or other complex electrical issues may be the cause. Driving with a non-functional radiator fan can severely damage your engine.
Important Notes:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1995 Chevy Cavalier will be invaluable for detailed diagrams and instructions.
* Safety: Always disconnect the battery's negative terminal before working on the electrical system to prevent shorts and injury.
Ignoring a non-working radiator fan can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Address this problem promptly.
