You turn off the engine on your Chevy Colorado after driving it for the day, but you still hear its internal fan running. So what’s wrong with it and what can you do in this situation? We researched these concerns and here’s the answer we found.
A cooling fan in a Chevy Colorado that stays on after deactivating the engine can indicate different issues. These concerns may range from low engine coolant to bad cooling fan control. Make sure to locate the origins of the problem first so you can apply the correct repair solution.
Continue reading as we talk about the possible reasons why the fan in your Chevrolet Colorado runs for extended periods. We’ll also discuss some potential solutions that might help you in getting rid of the problem.
What Causes The Chevy Colorado Cooling Fan To Stay On?
If a Chevrolet Colorado’s cooling fan stays on after deactivating the engine, it generally means an underlying problem exists. Some of these potential issues are:
Low Engine Coolant
The Chevrolet Colorado’s cooling fan may continue running if its coolant levels are critically low. The assembly might be trying to compensate for the low refrigerant by running for extended periods. If so, a coolant refresh may solve this concern.
Faulty Thermostat
A car’s thermostat, including the one in a Chevy Colorado, has the purpose of controlling the engine’s operational temperature. It also helps with engine coolant flow, allowing the vehicle to run at optimal and safe temperature levels.
However, some cases may cause the thermostat to go bad or even break. These instances may include:
- Engine overheat
- Coolant leak and contamination
- Faulty aftermarket thermostat
- Incorrect installation
- Normal wear and tear
If the thermostat shows signs of becoming bad, it may cause the truck’s cooling fan to continue running while the engine is off. Other signs that this assembly needs immediate attention are:
- Incorrect temperature gauge readings
- Strange or unknown sounds coming from the engine
- The cabin is hotter or colder than usual
You can also learn more about a car’s thermostat and its functions by reading our post on this component.
Dirty Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
Some Chevrolet Colorado models, like the 2022 version, are available with diesel engines. If so, the vehicle will have DPF, a system that regenerates when it gets dirty.
Take note that DPF regeneration often automatically occurs as you drive the truck at a sufficiently high load. That way, the engine should be able to reach temperatures that allow it to burn the dirt and soot on the DPF.
Keep in mind that DPF regeneration often has varying running times, depending on the number of particles to eliminate. At this point, the engine might still be reasonably hotter than usual, causing the fan to run longer.
However, if it feels like the cooling fan is running even longer than expected, you may need to clean the DPF manually.
Note: The issues that keep the fan running are generally repairable using DIY techniques. Still, you can take the vehicle to the nearest reliable automotive repair shop to allow expert technicians to look at the problem and repair it.
Bad Cooling Fan Control
Most if not all Chevrolet Colorado models have automatic and/or manual cooling fan controls. You can usually find these relays on the truck’s dashboard. But these modules might go bad if:
- The Colorado’s computing encounters errors or glitches with the cooling system.
- It encounters damages caused by frequent circuit changes.
- Ants or other pests eat the vehicle's electrical wiring.
- Cooling fan connections encountered short-circuits.
A malfunctioning fan may cause the cooling system to stay on for extended periods. Take note that the main fan might not be at fault in this particular scenario. Instead, the fan could be trying to compensate for the increase in vehicle temperature, making it run longer than usual.
How Do You Fix A Cooling Fan In A Chevy Colorado That Stays On?
First, don’t fret or panic when you hear a Chevy Colorado’s fan running even if the engine is off. This particular concern generally happens after you deactivate the truck. That also means that you and the vehicle should be in a relatively safe spot, such as your garage.
Assuming that you parked the Colorado safely, you may open the hood if it’s not hot to touch. Then troubleshoot the fan and its surroundings to assess the source and severity of the problem. You can then proceed by using the appropriate solution based on your findings.
In this section, you’ll learn some possible solutions to fix this issue based on its source:
Recharge The Coolant
Recharging engine coolant is generally a straightforward task and may not demand significant expertise in automotive care. But you may still need to check your Colorado’s owner’s manual if you have trouble locating and accessing the coolant reservoir.
Once found, continue this process by following these steps:
What You’ll Need
- Engine coolant
- Funnel
Step-by-Step Guide
- Twist the cap off of the coolant reservoir.
- Place the funnel on top of the opening.
- Pour the engine coolant into the container until the liquid reaches the fill line.
- Remove the funnel and return the cap.
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Also, take note that you shouldn’t pour any coolant into your Chevy Colorado’s refrigerant tank. Consult the automobile maker if you're unsure about your choice of refrigerant.
Watch the video below to gain additional insight into this procedure. The person in this clip will also show you how to check engine coolant levels:
If you’re wondering how long coolant lasts in a car, check out our post that highlights that concern and learn the answer.
Replace The Thermostat
Replacing the Chevy Colorado's thermostat might be a better choice if the costs of repairs are more expensive than buying a new one. But before you proceed with this task, make sure that the engine is off and cool. Don’t work with a hot engine to avoid burns and other injuries.
If you're ready, continue this job by following these steps:
What You’ll Need
- Hose clamp tool
- Drain pan
- Car jack
- Socket wrench
- Wrench extension pole
- Replacement thermostat
Step-by-Step Guide
- Twist and open the radiator cap.
- Use the hose clamp tool to twist and loosen the ring on the radiator hose.
- Place a drain pan underneath the radiator hose.
- Push the ring to the side and wiggle the radiator hose to loosen it. Take note that leftover coolant will almost immediately escape once you loosen the hose.
- Raise the Colorado to a reasonable height using the jack.
- Remove the hubcap of the wheel close to the thermostat by tugging it with sufficient pulling force.
- Use an appropriately sized socket wrench to remove the lug nuts on the wheels. Remove the entire wheel assembly afterward.
- Attach an extension pole to the socket wrench and remove the bolts fastening to the thermostat.
- Remove the thermostat from the engine block. You may need to take out the other end of the radiator hose for this step.
- Install the new thermostat while paying attention to its orientation.
- Return the assemblies and parts you removed, especially the wheel assembly.
- Lower the vehicle and turn on the engine for a few minutes.
- Turn off the engine, and check if the issue persists.
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You can watch the video below to gain additional insight into this procedure:
How Often Should You Maintain A Chevrolet Colorado?
You should have your Chevy Colorado maintained at least once every 7,500 miles. The bare routine care should include:
- Tire rotation
- Engine oil level check
- Change engine oil
- Clean or replace engine filter
Additional maintenance practices might be necessary, depending on your specific scenario. These extra care operations may include cooling system filter replacement, recharge or replace the transmission fluid, and engine drive belt inspection and repair.
Is A Chevy Colorado Expensive To Maintain?
A Chevy Colorado is quite expensive to maintain. It has an average of $9,910 average repair and maintenance fees during the first 10 years of the truck’s serviceable life. The expenses can also vary based on the assemblies and parts that need attention.
Final Words
Troubleshoot your Chevy Colorado to figure out the cause of its fan staying on longer than usual.
Once the issue is found, you can use the appropriate measures to fix the problem. Don’t forget that you can also rely on trustworthy automotive repair services, particularly if you don’t feel confident in going through with the job.