cooling

Cooling Fan Relay

for 2012 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · 4WD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Easy

Time

24 min

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the cooling fan relay in the engine compartment relay box on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 Coyote engine.

Warnings

⚠Do not attempt to remove relays with engine running, as this can cause electrical system damage

ℹ️Cooling fan relay location varies by model year; consult relay box diagram on underside of cover for exact position

Tools required

Flathead screwdriver or trim panel toolEssential

Needle-nose pliers

Electrical contact cleaner

Dielectric grease

Parts

Cooling fan relay × 1 — Motorcraft DY-1173 or equivalent 40A relay

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
Allow engine to cool if recently driven (relay box components can be warm)

Procedure

1
Locate the engine compartment relay box
Open the hood and locate the main relay/fuse box on the driver's side of the engine compartment, mounted on the inner fender near the battery. This is a black rectangular box with multiple connectors.
2
Remove relay box cover
Press the locking tabs on both sides of the relay box cover and lift upward to remove. The cover may have an attached diagram showing relay positions. On some models, you may need to gently pry with a flathead screwdriver if tabs are stiff.
3
Identify the cooling fan relay
Consult the relay diagram on the underside of the cover you just removed. The cooling fan relay is typically labeled as 'COOLING FAN' or 'FAN RELAY' and is usually a larger 40-amp relay. Note the orientation and position before removal.
4
Remove the old cooling fan relay
Firmly grasp the relay body and pull straight up with steady pressure. The relay has blade-type terminals that fit into socket connectors. If stuck, gently rock side-to-side while pulling upward. Do not pry or twist excessively to avoid damaging socket terminals.
5
Inspect relay socket and terminals
Examine the socket terminals in the relay box for corrosion, burning, or damage. If terminals appear corroded, spray with electrical contact cleaner and allow to dry. If terminals show heat damage or melting, the socket may need professional repair before installing new relay.
6
Install new cooling fan relay
Align the new relay with the socket, ensuring the relay tab or notch matches the socket orientation. Press firmly straight down until the relay is fully seated and flush with surrounding relays. You should feel it click into place. Do not force at an angle.
7
Reinstall relay box cover
Position the relay box cover over the box, ensuring all tabs align with their slots. Press down firmly on all edges until you hear clicks indicating the locking tabs have engaged. Verify the cover is secure and seated evenly.

Reassembly

Ensure relay box cover is fully latched on all sides
Optionally apply a small amount of dielectric grease to relay terminals for corrosion protection on future service

Verification

Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and listen for cooling fan operation if ambient temperature is high or A/C is activated
Start engine and turn A/C to maximum cold setting; cooling fan should engage within 30 seconds to 2 minutes
If fan does not operate, verify relay is fully seated and correctly positioned
Monitor engine temperature during a short test drive to ensure cooling fan engages when engine reaches operating temperature

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