1998 Subaru Outback Fans?

CSPEED206

MEMBER
1998 SUBARU OUTBACK
AUTOMATIC

I was able to drive the freeway with no stops, then once I stopped at a light, the car stopped running, and there was "steam like" smoke coming from under the hood. Once the steam stopped the car started again.
I opened the hood and found that there are two fans that are not moving, and/or working while the engine is running.
Could this be why the car stopped, and the reason for the "steam?" I drove it 3 blocks after this and it was fine. I have been afraid to drive long distances.
HELP PLEASE!

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,752 POSTS

While it is possible one of the fans is dead, you must be aware the fans only run when needed, not anytime the engine is running. If the overheating is occurring at low speeds or when standing still, that IS when the fan is needed. Electric radiator fans rarely run at highway speeds because natural air flow is more than sufficient to do the job.

Your best bet is to visit a mechanic for at least a preliminary diagnosis. First he will read the diagnostic fault codes to see if the Engine Computer detected a failing sensor that resulted in the engine stalling. There are a couple of sensors that commonly fail by becoming heat-sensitive, then they work again once they cool down in about an hour. He can also use his scanner to tell the computer to turn on the radiator fan. That will tell him instantly if the fan is working and the Engine Computer has control of it.