Cooling Fan Relay

This procedure covers the replacement of the cooling fan relay in a 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L I4, located in the engine compartment relay/fuse box.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Cooling fan relay × 1 — Use OEM specification - verify relay amperage rating from fuse box diagram

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Locate the engine compartment relay/fuse box on the driver's side near the battery
4. Optional: Disconnect negative battery terminal if working near battery or in wet conditions

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate cooling fan relay
   Open the hood and locate the engine compartment relay/fuse box positioned near the driver's side strut tower. Remove the relay box cover by releasing the clips on the sides of the cover. Refer to the relay/fuse diagram on the underside of the cover or in the owner's manual to identify the cooling fan relay position. The 2015 Forte 1.8L typically has multiple fan relays labeled for low and high speed operation.
2. 2

   Test existing relay (optional)
   Before removal, you can test the relay function using a multimeter if diagnosing a cooling fan issue. Check for continuity and proper switching behavior. This helps confirm the relay is the failed component and not wiring or the fan motor itself.
3. 3

   Remove failed relay
   Grip the cooling fan relay firmly and pull straight up with steady pressure to remove it from the relay socket. If the relay is difficult to remove, use a relay puller tool or carefully use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry up alternating sides. Avoid bending the relay terminals or damaging the socket contacts.
4. 4

   Inspect relay socket
   Examine the relay socket for any signs of corrosion, melted plastic, burned contacts, or debris. Clean contacts if necessary using electrical contact cleaner. If the socket shows heat damage or melted terminals, the relay box may need replacement as the socket damage likely caused the relay failure and will cause premature failure of the new relay.
5. 5

   Install new relay
   Verify the new relay matches the amperage rating and terminal configuration of the original relay. Align the relay terminals with the socket, ensuring proper orientation as relays are keyed to prevent incorrect installation. Press the new relay firmly into the socket until it is fully seated and flush with surrounding relays.
6. 6

   Reinstall relay box cover
   Position the relay/fuse box cover back onto the relay box, ensuring the relay diagram is visible and accessible for future reference. Press the cover down firmly until all clips engage securely. Verify the cover is properly sealed to prevent moisture intrusion.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery terminal if it was disconnected
2. Ensure relay box cover is properly secured and all clips are engaged

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature to verify cooling fan operation
• The cooling fan should activate when coolant temperature reaches approximately 200-210°F (93-99°C)
• For quicker testing, turn on the air conditioning - the cooling fan should engage immediately on most operating conditions
• Listen for relay clicking sound when fan activates, confirming proper relay operation
• Verify both low and high speed fan operation if vehicle is equipped with two-speed fan system

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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